Ruth Geraldine Rochek

Ruth Rochek, 77, died Wednesday, November 4, 2009 at the Homestead Nursing Home in Washington. A funeral service was held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, November 7, at the United Methodist Church in Washington. Pastor Randy Jellison-Knock officiated. Sheila Ouellette, organist accompanied Ed Durst while he sang “I Saw The Light” and “Go Rest High On That Mountain” and accompanied flutist, Carol Hergott on “Amazing Grace” and “The Old Rugged Cross.” Pallbearers were Denny Burnett, Ron Burnett, John Burnett, Steve Burnett, Ray Burnett, Mike Burnett, Don Hicks, Tim Hicks, Roger Smith and Tyler Smith. Burial was in the Washington City Cemetery. Ruth was born March 13, 1932, the daughter of Frank and Hazel (Bonar) Burnett. She grew up in the Strawberry and Enosdale area in Washington County and graduated from Morrowville High School. On September 17, 1959, she married Claude Rochek at Washington. He preceded her in death on March 4, 2002. Ruth worked at the Washington County Hospital as a receptionist, in the purchasing department and dietary department until retiring. She also worked at a feed store and Homestead Nursing Home. She enjoyed her flower beds, taking drives, watching ball games and bull riding, red birds, music, grandchildren and visiting her daughter in Manhattan. She was also preceded in death by her parents; and one brother, Keith Burnett. Survivors include three daughters, Becky Hughes and husband Larry of Washington, Sherry Rochek and Charles Harper of Manhattan, and Lori Rochek of Washington; one brother, James Burnett, Illinois; her brother Keith's significant other, Velda Overwald of Hanover, KS; and three grandchildren, Emily Hughes and fiance Dustin Schrieber, Taylor Hughes and close friend Jessica Colborn, and Lacey Hughes. A memorial fund has been established and will be designated at a later date. Contributions may be sent in care of Ward Funeral Home. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Ruth Geraldine Rochek, please visit our flower store.