Ruth (Tompkins) Koskinen

Ruth was born July 7, 1928 in Negaunee, MI to Frank E. and Anna (Lehman) Tompkins. She completed her undergraduate degree at Northern Michigan University and went on to earn her Master’s degree in Education from the University of Michigan. Ruth married Arthur Koskinen on June 12, 1948, and he preceded her in death on March 27, 2006.

Ruth was an art teacher in the Flint, Michigan Public Schools and also taught at the Flint Institute of Arts. She was a co-founder of PRIZM Creative Community where she was an exhibitor in numerous art shows; later hosting a weekly painting group. She was a volunteer at The Way Public Library for many years. During her younger years, Ruth was a competitive figure skater in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. She was an avid Michigan Football Fan, holding season tickets for decades, where she developed a reputation for her tailgating creativity in both food and drink. She is survived by her children, Larry (Mary) Koskinen, Dr. Wayne (Tana) Koskinen, Kristin (Denise Wiler) Koskinen and David (Catherine) Koskinen; grandchildren, Anna (1st Lieutenant Alexander) Brown, Margaret Koskinen, Laura Koskinen, Andrew (Katy Baldwin) Koskinen, Benjamin (Fiance, Katie Mickens) Koskinen, Ella Koskinen, Lena Koskinen, Jena Koskinen, William Koskinen and Ian Koskinen.

Along with her husband, Arthur, Ruth was preceded in death by her parents and brothers, William and Frank Tompkins, Jr.

Friends and family will be received Saturday, January 12, 2019 from 10-11 am at Grace United Methodist Church, 601 E. Boundary Street, Perrysburg, Ohio 43551 with Memorial Services beginning at 11 am with Pastor Dan Gildner, officiating. Burial will be private. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Witzler-Shank Funeral Home, Perrysburg (419-874-3133). Memorial contributions may be made in Ruth’s name to the Way Public Library, 101 E. Indiana Ave, Perrysburg, Ohio 43551. Condolences may be made to the family online at www.witzlershank.com.