Kenneth R. Ruth December 15, 1937 - May 18, 2024

Kenneth R. Ruth, 86, of Upper Macungie Township, died on Saturday, May 18, 2024, surrounded by his wife and family at his residence at Country Meadows. He was the husband of Gail I. Ruth (née Wehr) to whom he had been married for 61 years. Born in Allentown on December 15, 1937, he was the son of Herbert Ruth and Anna Ruth (née Haines).

Kenneth first worked at his grandfather’s Haines Mill in Cetronia while concurrently working at his father’s corner store, Deiley’s Market, in West Allentown, and his uncle’s restaurant, The Village Inn, in South Whitehall Township. After transferring from Allentown High School, he graduated in the first class of Parkland High School, class of 1955, participating in basketball, track and football. He served in the Air Force from 1956 to 1960, first overseas in North Africa and Turkey and later in the reserves at Suffolk County Air Force Base, Riverhead, New York. After his return from the Air Force, he resumed work at Deiley’s Market with his father until he became a butcher in his own right at Suburban Corner Store on 19th Street in Allentown. Kenneth graduated from Carnegie Business School and worked in the supermarket, grocery business, and eventually had a long-term career with Kimberly-Clark. Even after retirement, he continued part-time employment as a payroll delivery driver because of his familiarity with the area’s roads and routes.

Kenneth was a life-long member of Cedar Church of Cetronia, serving in the choir, and a long-time member of the Parkland Alumni Association. He was an avid golfer and an enthusiastic sports fan of Parkland High School, all Philadelphia teams, golf, and NASCAR.

Beyond being survived by his wife, Gail, Kenneth leaves behind son, Michael Ruth (wife, Heather), of Rocklin, California, son, Scott Ruth (wife, Angela), of Hanover, daughter, Gina Gordon (husband, Perry), of Bath, five grandsons, one granddaughter, one great granddaughter, and sister, Jane Smith. He was predeceased by his parents and his brothers, Thomas, Ronald, William, and Frederick. He is remembered fondly by his Dorneyville Dunkin’ Donuts friends and his golfing buddies.

Services: 11 AM Saturday, June 1st, in Cedar Church, 3419 Broadway, Allentown. Call 9-10:30 AM at STEPHENS FUNERAL HOME, INC. 274 N. Krocks Rd., Allentown.

Contributions: In lieu of flowers, to American Cancer Society.