Ruth Marie Nelson

Ruth Marie Nelson, age 90, of Hastings, Michigan, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2025. She was born on November 14, 1934, the daughter of Orson and Wilma (Stowe) Laubaugh.

Ruth attended Hastings High School. She managed several local establishments and restaurants, including the American Legion and Sandy Pines, and was the owner and operator of B&R Cafe in Hastings. Her commitment to hard work and hospitality was evident in every endeavor she undertook.

Ruth found great joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved to bake, enjoyed bowling, and spent over 15 years providing transportation for members of the Amish community—an act of service that reflected her generous and compassionate spirit.

She was preceded in death by her husbands, Wayne Phillips (1996) and Leon Nelson (2021), and her granddaughter, Teresa Planck.

She is survived by her daughter, Diane (Ron) Page; grandchildren, Randy (Eva) Planck, Joedy (Carrie) Planck, and Denise (Rick) Patino; nephew, Kevin Patrick; as well as numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Gospel Light Baptist Church, 3180 M-79, Hastings, MI 49058. Arrangements are being provided by Girrbach Funeral Home. To share a memory or leave an online condolence, please visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net.