Ella Ruth Markham, 92, of New Prague, died Monday, May 12, 2014 at her home. She was born on February 22, 1922 in Posey County, Indiana to Otto and Eleanor (Boyle) Simpson.
Ella Ruth grew up in rural areas around Genoa, Illinois. After graduating from high school she continued on to Saint Anthony Hospital School of Nursing in Rockford, IL. She graduated as a registered nurse in 1943 and worked for the Visiting Nurses Association.
Ella Ruth married Lloyd Markham on January 8, 1945 upon his return from 22 months in the South Pacific. They had 2 children, Marsha Topka (Tom) and Jeff Markham (Terry). Throughout their 61 years of marriage they lived in many locations having moved from Illinois, Georgia, Minnesota, North Carolina, and then returning to Stillman Valley, Illinois. After being gone for 22 years, they returned to New Prague in 2004. Wherever they made their home, Ella Ruth was involved in volunteer organizations. When she was 60 years old, she enrolled in an “Aging Studies” program at the University of Minnesota. During those years, she volunteered weekly at a Catholic Charities branch in downtown Minneapolis.
As well as traveling extensively throughout the United States, Ella Ruth experienced trips to the Middle East, Mexico, Portugal, Greece, and Spain. Her love of traveling continued throughout her life with her last trip being to Arizona to celebrate her 90th birthday. She was an avid reader and when her eyesight failed, she continued to enjoy books through listening on tape. Her poor eyesight eventually caused her to give up playing bridge, a hobby she had enjoyed for more than 50 years.
She is survived by two children, Marsha (Tom) Topka of New Prague and Jeff (Terry) Markham of Scottsdale, AZ; five grandchildren, Tasha (Eric) Kallal of New Prague, Nick (Julie) Topka of Littleton, CO, Andy (Michelle) Topka of Charleston, SC, Amanda (Dom Pernai) Markham of Chicago, IL, and Molly (Adam) Baslow of Johns Island, SC. She also had 9 great-grandchildren: Hannah and Noah Topka, Abby and Lucy Kallal, Evie and Markham Baslow, and Tommy, Rosie, and Charlie Topka. Also surviving are her brother, Joe (Mary) Simpson, sister Betty (Larry) Rupp along with nieces and nephew. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd, her parents, and a brother, Glenn Simpson.
Funeral service Saturday, May 17th, at 10:00 AM at Bruzek Funeral Home. Visitation 1 hour prior from 9 – 10 AM. Interment at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery and lunch will follow at the Philipp Square Community Room.
The family wishes to thank her good friends who were of such importance to her in these past years, especially Sally Odenthal, who through her loyal efforts made it possible for Ella Ruth to remain in her home for the last 1 1/2 years. The hospice team from Hospice of the Valley in Mankato was wonderful in their care and compassion these past weeks. Another debt of gratitude is given to Terri Jacobson who, along with the others, provided such gentle care in the final weeks.
