Ruthele J Bailey Obituary (1927 - 2026)

Ruthele J. Bailey 98 of Portage, formerly of Pardeeville, passed away Saturday, March 21, 2026 at the Heritage House surrounded by her family. She was born December 3, 1927 in Crystal Falls, Michigan, the daughter of Melvin and Edna Croll. Ruthele was united in marriage to Ralph Bailey April 4, 1953. She worked as a registered nurse at the Columbia Health Care Center for 20 years until her retirement in 1989. Ruthele was an active member of St. John Lutheran Church in Pardeeville for many years. Survivors include her husband Ralph of 73 years; her children, Gerald (Janet) Bailey, Gail (Ron) Williams, Valerie (David) Bailey Rihn, and Roy (Jennifer) Bailey; grandchildren, Guy Wiles, Benjamin (Jen) Wiles, Ryan (Andrea) Bailey, Max Bailey, and Nate Bailey, and 6 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and son Vernon Bailey. Memorial service will be held Wednesday, March 25 at 11 AM at St. John Lutheran Church in Pardeeville with Rev. James Plocher officiating. Visitation will be held from 10 AM until the time of service at the church. Inurnment will take place at Marcellon Cemetery.