Ruth J. Voogd Huisman

Ruth J. Voogd Huisman, nee Vander Beek, age 86, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on September 26, 2025. She recently lived in Naperville, IL but lived the majority of her adult life in South Holland. Ruth was preceded in death by her two husbands, John Voogd and Marvin Huisman. Ruth’s family members from John’s family include Lisa (Paul) Sikkema, Ann (Jim) Hill, and Julia Voogd; family members from Marv’s family include Larry (Nancy) Huisman, the late Sharon (Martin) Asebdo, and the late Marvin Richard Huisman. Ruth has 11 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. Ruth is survived by her siblings Grad (Luella) Vander Beek, Esther (Arnie) Rood and John (Bev) Vander Beek. She was the loving aunt of several nieces and nephews.

Ruth graduated from Dordt College on May 28, 1965. She was a teacher in Orange City, IA and at Lansing Christian School before teaching Kindergarten at Calvin Christian School in South Holland for over 30 years. She was honored by the Christian Educators Association for devoting 35 years to Christian Education. Ruth worked at Trinity Christian College in Palos Heights doing student teacher evaluations and assessments, worked in the After School Care program at Calvin Christian for many years and also volunteered at Bradenton Christian School. Ruth was involved in MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), led Vacation Bible School, and taught Sunday School for many years. She helped plan children’s activities at Cedar Lake Bible Camp Ministry and spent many hours volunteering at the Thrift Store in Highland. Ruth played the organ at Richton Park Christian Church and sang in many different choirs, including the Handel’s Messiah. She enjoyed attending musicals and plays, and traveling with her family and friends.

Visitation Wednesday, October 1, 2025 from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Smits Funeral Home 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane, Dyer, IN. Interment Oak Ridge Cemetery – Lansing, IL. Memorial contributions may be given to Calvin Christian School - 528 E. 161st Place, South Holland, IL 60473. For further information, please contact 219-322-7300 or visit our online obituary and guestbook at www.SMITSFH.com