Ruth was born the youngest of eight children on the family farm in Ray Township. Franklin County, Indiana. After a few short years, her father retired from farming and moved the family to Oldenburg where Ruth attended school, graduating from the Oldenburg Academy in 1950.

After graduation, Ruth moved to Cincinnati where she was employed as a secretary at the Cincinnati Milling Machine Company. It was while here that she met her future husband, William "Bill" Bretnitz. They were married 11 Jun 1955 in her hometown of Oldenburg at Holy Family Catholic Church. After their honeymoon, the couple returned to Cincinnati where they made their home and raised their four children.

Ruth was employed for many years by McAlpin's Department Store in the drapery department. She had a loyal customer base who asked for her personally to assist them in decorating their home. She also made several friends there who remained close after her retirement.

She was a very determined person and had definite opinions. However, Ruth had a kind generous heart and would do anything for you. Her greatest joys were her husband, children and extended family. She was especially close to her sister, Frieda and niece Margie. Family gatherings were some of her favorite times. She loved to cook and entertain and always made her everyone feel special. Her special Easter coffee cake and "Grandma Soup" were constantly requested. In addition, she loved to travel and had memorable trips to Ireland, Alaska, and many places throughout America. Canasta was also passion and her weekly card club luncheon was rarely missed.

No matter what life threw at her Ruthie remained strong. She leaves behind her husband of 59 years, children and special sister of the heart as well as many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, siblings, son Randy, grandson Nicholas Smith and son-in-law David Smith.

Visitation was held at St. Ignatius Church, in Monfort Heights on Wednesday 2 PM until time of Mass of Christian Burial at 3 PM.