Erma Ruthrauff

Erma P Ruthrauff was born on July 18, 1926, to Italian immigrants Esther Mazzoni and Julio Perondi in Ogden, Utah. She was the second daughter of four siblings. She married James Ruthrauff in Oakland, California, on December 28, 1946.

Erma began her life with a zest for family and creating a warm home. Her dedication and commitment to her loved ones were evident in her role as a loving mother and homemaker. She poured her heart into caring for her daughters, Julie Combs and Linda Black, sons Bruce (deceased), Ronald, and James, embracing every moment with them.

As a stay-at-home mom, Erma was known for her love of cooking and devotion to her children. Her hobbies included trying new recipes, bowling, golf, puzzles, and reading. She was most proud of raising her babies.

Erma was a woman of incredible strength and resilience, facing challenges with unwavering courage. She radiated warmth and compassion, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her. Her genuine smile and infectious laughter lit up every room she entered, bringing joy to those around her.

The lives of her children and the bond they shared were paramount to Erma. She lived for family gatherings and cherished every moment spent together. From shared laughter to heartfelt conversations, Erma possessed a remarkable ability to make every occasion feel special and memorable.

She is survived by four of her children: Julie and husband, Tommy Combs of Lubbock; Linda and husband Gary Black of Aurora, Colorado; sons Ronald and wife, Karen of Blessing, Texas, and Jim and wife Holly of Broadview Heights, Ohio; 6 grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren.

Erma’s final wishes were for a cremation, which will take place at Lake Ridge Chapel and Memorial Designers crematory. Her ashes will remain a lasting symbol of the love and memories she shared with her family and buried with her husband at Fairview Cemetery in Coffeyville, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made in Erma’s name to The Parenting Cottage, https://www.parentingcottage.org/donate/, as she held compassion for children in need.

Erma Ruthrauff, beloved mother and homemaker, gracefully passed away on August 24, 2023, at the age of 97, surrounded by her loving family in Lubbock, Texas.

“Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us daily. Unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, and very dear.”

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