Ruth Ann Roberts, 90, of Ottumwa, died at 1 p.m. June 30, 2026 at her home.
She was born December 2, 1935 in Clayton County, IA to Henry and Johanna E. Wach Hamlet. She married Louis Ponsar September 29, 1952 and he preceded her in death June 22, 1981. She married Richard Roberts and they later divorced.
A resident of Ottumwa most of her life, Ruth owned and operated a childcare service. She was a foster parent for years, enjoyed nature and had a green thumb for gardening. Ruth loved wildflowers and lilies. She also enjoyed hunting for antiques and collectibles. She was very organized and had a photographic memory. If you needed something she usually, had it on hand and knew right where to find it. In her younger years she canned all her own food and sewed dresses for her girls. She was an excellent cook and made many holiday meals for her large family. She also welcomed and cared for countless homeless and stray pets in her neighborhood for decades.
Surviving are her children, Mark (Sandy) Van Auken, Jayne (Jeff) Petersen, Greg (Cindy) Ponsar, Karen (Jay) Nielson, John Ponsar, Cassandra Klodt and Jennifer (Spencer) Garmon; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; and her sister, Linda (Don) Leonhart.
She was preceded in death by her parents Henry and Johanna Hamlett, her daughter Mary Ellen Besler her son Robert Ponsar, her sisters, Irene Crane, Ellen Mueller and Marian Patzner.
Her body has been donated to the University of Iowa Department of Anatomy. Per Ruth’s request there are no services planned at this time.
Memorials may be made to Noah’s Ark Animal rescue or Heartland Humane Society.
Reece Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
