Ruth K. “Ruthie” Burks, 98, died Monday evening November 27, 2017 at the Hollidaysburg Veterans Home following a lengthy illness.

            She was born March 12, 1919 in Pittsburgh a daughter of the late John and Anna (Stranatka) Kucharek. She married Leon F. Burks on September 22, 1946 in Florida. He preceded her in death March 18, 1982.

            Surviving are two daughters, Suzanne L. Keefer and her husband Paul of Altoona; Elizabeth A. “Betsey” Foor and her husband Steven of Altoona; four grandchildren, Amy J. Marriott and her husband David of Gettysburg; Paul D. Keefer, Jr. of Altoona; Stephen C. Keefer of State College; Mindy D. Denbow and her husband David of Lewisburg; six great grandchildren; two great great grandchildren; and a sister, Elaine “Joy” Williams of Martinsburg.

            Ruth was preceded in death by a son, John R. Burks and a sister, Dorothy “Dottie” Brown.

            Mrs. Burks was a member of Fairview United Methodist Church, Altoona.

            She was a graduate of Swissvale High School.

            She was a U.S. Navy veteran serving during WWII attaining the rank of Seaman First Class.

            Ruthie retired as a telemarketer from NAICO after ten years’ service and had previously been employed by the A&P Company bakery department office for ten years.

            She enjoyed cooking, baking, sewing, shopping, playing Pinochle and gossiping “across the fence” with her neighbors.

            Ruthie especially enjoyed spending time with her family.

            A private viewing and funeral service will be held at the convenience of the family.

            Interment will be made at Blair Memorial Park, Bellwood.

            In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Pennsylvania Chapter, 2595 Interstate Drive, Suite 100, Harrisburg, PA 17110 or to the charity of your choice.