Ruth Ann Bridgewater

Ruth Ann Bridgewater, 82, of Wamego, Kansas, formerly of Topeka, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, April 15, 2014 at her home surrounded by her loving family.   Ruth was born June 10, 1931 in Chapman, Kansas, the daughter of Lorraine and Edith (Matthews) Kelly. She grew up and attended schools in Chapman, before moving to Manhattan, Kansas, where she graduated from Lucky High School. Ruth married Erv Bussart Sr. They later divorced.   On October 29, 1973, Ruth was united in marriage to Lawrence “Larry” Bridgewater in Miami, Oklahoma. He survives of the home. Ruth worked for Jostens’ Yearbook in Topeka for several years before retiring. Larry and Ruth lived in Topeka for over 40 years before moving to Wamego in 2011. Ruth loved to read and enjoyed traveling when she was able. She also loved flowers and playing with her dog Molly. Most importantly to Ruth was the time spent with her family and friends, especially her grandchildren. Ruth was a member of the St. Bernard’s Catholic Church.   Additional survivors include her daughter: Kathy Bracken and husband Louis of Wamego; her stepson: David Bridgewater and wife Ellen of Wichita, KS; her sister: Mary Chambers of Topeka; five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son, Michael Bussart and her brother, Larry Kelly.   Ruth’s wishes were to be cremated. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 21, 2014 at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, Wamego. A visitation will be held prior at the church beginning at 10:00 a.m. A private family inurnment will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to PRN Home Health and Hospice or to Community Health Ministry and may be left in care of the Stewart Funeral Home, PO Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.