Ruth Clare Heitchue (nee O'Brien) passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her family, on Friday, August 14, 2020 at the age of 86. She was born on June 5, 1934 in Mt. Clemens, MI, the youngest daughter of Christopher and Margaret (McInerney) O'Brien. She graduated from St. Mary High School in 1952, then married her high school sweetheart, John (Jack) Heitchue on October 24, 1953. Jack and Ruth were the loves of each other's lives for 66 years.

Ruth found her greatest joy in her home, caring and cooking for her large family and for anyone else who might enter the always-open front doors. Welcoming people and making them feel at home was her gift, and her kindness impacted so many of all ages. Up until her last days, no matter who came and went, she would stick out her hand and say, "Hi, I'm Ruth," and then, "You come back anytime. We would love to have you." She will best be remembered by many as a wonderful listener who always had words of encouragement. She was quick with a funny quip and never lost her sense of humor. Her grandchildren will always remember that Gramma's house had filled candy jars and fresh cookies without fail. Her mother, Maggie, lived with Jack and Ruth from the time they were married until her death in 1988 and was the only babysitter their children ever knew.

Ruth was a lifelong member of St. Peter's Catholic Church in Mt. Clemens. She and Jack held hands and walked together to church every Sunday from their home of 58 years. The parish priests were their close friends and had a warm refuge in their home. Ruth and sister, Kay, and sister-in law, Mado, were renowned for their Altar Society luncheons.

Ruth is survived by her husband, John, and their five children: Ruann (David) Marshall, Jacquelyn (Steve) Kidd, John Heitchue Jr., Jeffrey (Donna) Heitchue, and Catherine (Brian) Reed, along with 15 grandchildren, their spouses, and 19 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her four siblings and their spouses: Thomas (Virginia) O'Brien, Ann Eastin, Dennis (Madeline) O'Brien, and Catherine (Edward) Miles and three great grandchildren, Elijah, Erin, and Brendan.

The celebration of Ruth's life will be held at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Mt. Clemens on Tuesday, August 18, 2020. Viewing will be from 10:30-11:30, followed by Holy Mass. Burial will be at St. Peter's Cemetery in Mt. Clemens. Donations in memory of Ruth may be sent to St. Mary School Hearts and Stones Endowment Fund or to St. Peter Church St. Vincent DePaul.