Forter

Ruth Elizabeth (Cress) Forter, 79, of Butler, passed away Monday, Feb. 24, 2025, while under the care of Butler Memorial Hospital.

She was the daughter of the late Ralph and Magda (Otterson) Cress.

Known as “Ruthie” to her friends, she was, in her earlier years, a proud Meridian Woodpecker, something she enjoyed reminiscing about her entire life. She loved to swim at Moraine and the YMCA with her sisters and cousins. She also loved to go fishing with her husband of 58 years, John.

She loved all the children in her life dearly and was a surrogate grandmother to many. Known as the “Old Witch” to the kids during trick-or-treat, she always served Spider Cider and Monster Munchkins. Ruth loved to spread her musical talents by teaching piano and guitar. She never met a stranger and was often overheard inviting friends and strangers alike to her second home, her church.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory, her husband, John; son, Dan (Tricia) Forter of Ajax, Canada; daughter, Melissa (Thomas) Bahleda of Boone, N.C.; brothers, Lincoln Cress, Robert Cress and Jim Cress; and sisters, Mabel D’Ambrosio and Carol Reges.

FORTER — Memorial services and a celebration of life for Ruth Elizabeth (Cress) Forter, who died Monday, Feb. 24, 2025, will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26, at St. John’s Reformed Church, 493 Evans City Road, Butler. Ruth was a lifelong member, regular volunteer and music director at St. John’s Reformed Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Women of Faith at St. John’s Reformed Church in Meridian. Online donations may be made at https://stjohnsref.com.

Arrangements were entrusted to BOYLAN FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION CENTER, 856 Evans City Road, Renfrew.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at boylanfuneralservices.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.