Ruth Ann Barish

     Ruth Ann (Kleeman) Barish, age 69, of Elsie, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at Hospice House of Mid-Michigan in Lansing, Michigan.
     Ruth was born to Alfred and Doylene Kleeman and was a proud graduate of St. Johns High School, Class of 1975. She began working at Smeltzer Corporation in St. Johns in 1976, where she remained until 1990 when an accident forced her early retirement.
     Ruth found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved cooking for family and friends, fishing, and spending winters at her home in Florida alongside summers camping at the family’s place in Alba, Michigan. Fall was especially meaningful to her, as she enjoyed making her famous pumpkin rolls and pumpkin frosted cookies. Ruth also had a special love for her little Yorkies: Punky, Bailey, Zoey, and Ellie, who brought her companionship and happiness throughout the years.
     She was preceded in death by her parents, Alfred and Doylene Kleeman; her brother, James Kleeman; brother-in-law, John Parker; and niece, Laura Pumford. Ruth is lovingly survived by her husband, Gilbert Lee Barish; sisters, Barbara Parker, Donna Wolfe, Rhonda Bradley (Keith), and Sandy Forgrave (Rich); along with many nieces and nephews.
     Ruth will be remembered by her family and friends and missed by all who knew her.
     Per Ruth’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and no services are planned at this time.
     Online condolences may be made at www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, Elsie, Michigan.