Ruthie Brown Michael, 86, of Mishawaka, Indiana, departed this world for her heavenly home on June 11, 2016, after many years of valiantly battling illness. Her devotion to her family and her relationship with God supported her in this life and ultimately gave her peace. Ruthie was born on April 21, 1930, to the late Thomas and Rhoda Franks Brown. She enjoyed singing gospel hymns with her family, accompanied by her husband on his guitar. Ruthie shared her love of gardening and nature with her grandchildren and spent many hours outdoors, imparting to them her knowledge of flowers and birds. She was a very talented quilter and she hand-quilted many colorful and unique quilts. She enjoyed cooking for her family and had her own secret recipe for her special butter rolls. Ruthie was famous for her legendary chicken and dumplings! Her family fondly remembers Ruthie’s great love of Christmas, and she instilled in them her love for holidays, decorating, and spending quality time with loved ones. She made Christmas extra special by opening her heart and home with kindness to everyone, especially to those who had hardships during the holidays. Ruthie’s bright smile and infectious laughter made every family gathering joyous and memorable. Her family is very grateful for such a wonderful legacy of love and fond memories. She is dearly missed by her loved ones, who celebrate the fact that she is at peace with her Creator. Ruthie is survived by her loving husband of 64 years, George Wesley Michael; daughter Brenda Michael Arnold (Thomas), and son George D. Michael; grandchildren Teresa Arnold Barcus (Rev. Jonathan), Thomas Wesley Arnold, Mindy Michael Canner (Tim), and Dr. Daniel Michael; great-grandchildren Jon, Emily, Tommy, Trent, Sully, and CeCe; sister Ruie Harville; and sister-in-law Etta Franks. She is predeceased by sisters Mollie and Ruby Stricklin; and brothers Rev. L. V., Floyd, Audie, Hardin, Randal, and James. Ruthie requested no funeral services. Therefore, a graveside service will be held on Thursday, June 16, 2016, at 12 p.m., at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Buchanan, Michigan. Arrangements are being made by Hoven Funeral Home, Buchanan, Michigan. The family would like to thank: Center for Hospice Care, Dr. Charles Peterson and staff at the Center for Wound Healing in Elkhart, Dr. Bilal Ansari and staff at the Michiana Hematology-Oncology Center, Memorial Home Care and staff, and many friends, neighbors, and volunteers for all the love and care shown to Ruthie during her illness. Memorial contributions in Ruthie’s name are welcome and appreciated: Center for Hospice Palliative Care, 111 Sunnybrook Court, South Bend, IN 46637.