Ruthann (Widman) Stocker

Ruthann (Widman) Stocker passed peacefully surrounded by family on February 20, 2026, at The James Cancer Center after her long hard fight with leukemia. Ruthann was born in Norwalk, Ohio on January 8, 1959, to George and MaryRose Widman. Ruthann was a graduate of Norwalk High School and a 1980 graduate of St. Vincent School of Nursing, Toledo, Ohio. Ruthann is the proud mother of two children, Mary (Eric) Brooks and Clinton Stocker and the devoted grandmother of Maggie and James Brooks. Ruthann will be missed by her loving siblings Joseph (Barb) Widman of Norwalk, William (Carrie) Widman of St. Marys and Christopher (Joni) Widman of Tiffin. Ruthann was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Mark and her sister Mary.

Ruthann lived a life dedicated to serving others. She spent 45 years as a nurse and truly loved her job. She inspired others to also pursue a nursing career because of the way she showed compassion and empathy for her patients. Ruthann valued the friendships she made while working at Fisher-Titus.

Ruthann enjoyed spending time with her family. She faithfully attended performances and sporting events of her grandchildren and her nieces and nephews. She also liked gathering around the table to play a good card game and listening to audiobooks. Christmas was a special time of the year for Ruthann. She found great joy in the spirit of giving to others, Christmas cooking and time together with family. Sunday dinner with family was a priority and her culinary specialities were always a group favorite.

Ruthann took great pride in her children and grandchildren and their accomplishments. She was their biggest supporter and cheerleader. They have inherited her competitive spirit. Ruthann, while attending Norwalk High, participated in the first State Track Meet girls were permitted to run in. Her ability to run 440 yards in 59 seconds helped her lead her 4x440yd team through two successful seasons to State. She paved the way for future female track athletes.

Ruthann didn't just show up for her family, she served St. Mary’s Church and Norwalk Catholic Schools in many different capacities. She was called to serve and to help others in any way she could.

Ruthann will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Please share memories through Walker Eastman Heydinger Funeral Home by visiting: www.walkereastmanheydingerfh.com or greet family at the funeral home, (98 W. Main St.) on Thursday, February 26, 2026, from 3:30-7:30 P.M. A Rosary and prayer service will follow the conclusion of the visitation period beginning promptly at 7:30 P.M. Please join the family for a funeral Mass at St. Mary’s Catholic Church on Friday, February 27, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. with burial following at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Donations may be made to the St. Mary's Catholic Church of Norwalk in Ruthann’s name or donations may be made to the MaryRose Fund through Good Shepherd Home of Fostoria, a fund formed in honor of her mother, MaryRose. The Fund supports the DayBreak SAIDO Learning Center which assists those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.