Ruth (Hagendorff) Stephens

Ruth Hagendorff Stephens, age 96, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 30, 2025. She was born February 4, 1929 in Germany along with twin sister Hannelore. Ruth was the daughter of Karl and Johanna (Oestreich) Hagendorff. Ruth and Johanna immigrated from Germany to the United States where she would meet her future husband, Robert F Stephens. They married May 9, 1953 and established their life in Dearborn Heights, MI. Her drive and determination played an important role as she built a successful career as an Executive Secretary for the J.L. Hudson Company, also known to many as Hudson’s. Once retired they moved North to Mecosta, MI. Here she really did not retire, but poured her life into volunteering at the church, the local library and even taught aquatic aerobics. After Bob passed, Ruth moved to Beacon Hill in Grand Rapids where she continued graciously volunteering her time at church and Meijer’s Garden. It was here she built an extended family, played cards with her core group of friends, enjoyed the symphony and even worked at her local Costco. Her unwavering love for life, friends, family and God allowed her to live a fulfilling life.

Ruth is survived by her niece Christine (David) Shrewsbury; 6 great nieces and nephews, Erich (Holly) Shrewsbury, Kurtis (Carrie) Shrewsbury, Kalvin Shrewsbury, Chelsea (Nick) Younce, Rurik (Nicole) Hamer, and Dustin Hamer. Ruth was preceded in death by her husband Robert, Karl and Johanna (Parents), Hannelore (Sister), Huwald (Brother), Detlef Hamer (Nephew), and Aspen Younce (Great Great Nephew).

The family will receive friends from 10-11am at Our Savior Lutheran Church, 2900 Burton St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 on Saturday, January 10, 2026. The funeral service will follow at 11AM with Reverend Jeremy Swem officiating. Luncheon to follow after the service. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Morton Township Library, 110 South James Street, Mecosta, MI 49332, (231) 972-8315.

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