Ruth Adele Bortel, 92, was born September 20, 1917 in Akron, Ohio to the Rev. August W. and Ida
(Buntrock) Klaiber. She died September 28, 2009 peacefully at home under God’s loving care. Her faith
was her life.
After graduating from Western Michigan University in 1939, she taught school in Owosso, MI. She then
moved to Seattle, WA where she met her husband, Army Lt. Stanley D. Bortel. They were married May 25,
1944 in Holt, MI by her father, the Rev August W. Klaiber.
Mr. Bortel preceded her in death on May 29, 2009 after celebrating 65 years of marriage.
After her husband’s tour of duties in WWII, they settled in Bowling Green where her husband joined his
brother, Leroy, in the BG Mirror & Glass Works which had been established by their father, Frank
Bortel.
Mrs. Bortel was active in church and community affairs. As a member of the First United Methodist Church,
she taught Sunday school, was a Circle Leader, and was active in the Woman’s organization. She was
Worthy Matron of Greenwood Chapter #159, Eastern Stars in 1955.
She taught kindergarten in Eastwood Schools from 1956 to 1966. In the 1960s she was scheduling chairman
of Red Cross Bloodmobile in Bowling Green. During the 1970s she was chairman of the Bowling Green State
University Foreign and Community Wives group. She was also active in PTO, Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, Grey
Ladies and Hospital Guild. Even when her hearing got so bad she still enjoyed meeting with friends for a
good game of bridge.
She is survived by her daughter Sue Ann (Steve) Thomas; sons, Stanley D. Jr. (Jill) and Robert F.
(Susan); grandchildren, Bill (Tangy) Thomas, Mike (Jessica) Thomas, Trey Bortel, Beau Bortel, Meghann
(Joey) Tinsley, Michael (Robin) Yon, Sean Bortel and Erin Bortel; great-granddaughters, Natalie Thomas,
and Ella and Lizzie Yon. Also surviving are two sisters, Myrtha Carter, Midland, MI, and Ida Lou
Shriver, Chambersburg, PA.
There will be visitation one hour prior to the 11 a.m. service at Dunn Funeral Home on Wednesday and
burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested an act of random kindness be given in her memory.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.dunnfuneralhome.com.
