Ruth Louisa Basch, age 89, passed away peacefully at her home in Medina, Ohio, on January 8, 2026. She was born in Cleveland, Ohio, to the late Alfred and Lillian Lunn.

Ruth dedicated her life to children—both her own and the many she taught throughout her long and meaningful career in education. She served as a first-grade teacher for over 30 years, beginning with the Cleveland School System and later teaching at St. Albert the Great School in North Royalton, Ohio. Even after retirement, Ruth's passion for learning and service continued as she volunteered her time teaching and caring for others at the Medina Parks Nature Center.

Ruth enjoyed traveling with her beloved husband, Lawrence, particularly to Ohio's Amish Country and throughout the United States to areas of her primary interest in American and Native American history. In celebration of their 40th wedding anniversary, her children gifted her a memorable trip to England, where she proudly embraced and explored her British heritage.

Ruth was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Lawrence Basch; her parents; and her sister, Anne Kunzi, and brother-in-law, Jeff Kunzi.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her loving children, Rebecca (Phillip) Basch-Hendren, David (Theresa) Basch, and Lawrence (Margarita) Basch; grandchildren David, Michael, and Stephanie; great-grandchildren Leilani, Mila, and Isla; niece Marjorie (Bill) Seiderman; nephew Ted (Wende) Kunzi; and special friends Marilyn Wojcik, Lori (Rich) Ruh, and Mary Ann Lucarelli.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Waite Funeral Home, 765 N. Court Street, Medina, Ohio 44256. Family sharing will begin at 11:20 a.m., with a reception to follow. A Committal Service will take place afterward at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations in Ruth's name to St Joseph's Indian School  P.O. Box 326 Chamberlain, SD 57326.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.waitefuneralhome.com