Obituary of Ruth Ann Kluin

Ruth Ann (Kerwin) Kluin of Freehold, NJ passed away recently after a brief illness. She was a remarkable person, known for her kindness and generosity. She gave freely of her time and resources to organizations she cared about. Helping others, whether they be human or animal, was a core part of her life. Ruth was born in in Englishtown and graduated from Freehold High School. She and husband Dieter settled in Freehold where their home became a haven for many rescued cats and dogs, birds and wildlife. Ruth had a long career at Bell Labs, working her way up from the mailroom to become a Member of Technical Staff. She retired from Lucent Technologies after a 38-year career. While there, she was a volunteer with the Pioneers. An alumnus of Monmouth College, she was proud to have earned her degree while working at the Labs. Ruth was a member of the Francis Hopkinson Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and volunteered for many years at the Monmouth County Historical Association. She and her sister Mary Lou were often fixtures at antique shows and various events in support of the preservation of Monmouth County history. She was a congregant of Our Lady of Mercy Roman Catholic Church in Englishtown, NJ. Ruth was a strong and determined woman, with a great sense of humor and a caring heart. She supported many charities and was proud to be able to help several orphaned children in Africa. Ruth was an accomplished business leader. She believed in helping others live a better life and committed over 40 years as a volunteer with the United Teletech Federal Credit Union. As its Chair for 30 years, she oversaw programs and services that have helped thousands of families in New Jersey. Ruth will be missed by many friends but especially her husband of 55 years, Dieter. She is survived by nephew, James Kerwin and his wife Susan of Cedar Knolls, NJ and their three daughters, and a niece, Colleen Southern of Cartersville, GA. Ruth was predeceased by her parents, Thomas W., Sr., and Louise (Appleby) Kerwin; her sister, Mary Lou Nolan, and her brother Thomas Kerwin, Jr. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am Thursday, February 9, 2023 at the Higgins Memorial Home, 20 Center Street Freehold, New Jersey. Interment will follow in St. Rose of Lima Cemetery, Freehold, NJ. Visitation is Thursday February 9, 10:00 am to 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a tribute donation be made in Ruth’s name with the Monmouth County ASPCA https://monmouthcountyspca.org/support/donate/