Ruth E. Zarate

Ruth E. Zarate, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2025. Ruth was born on February 28, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Emilio, Sr. & Consuelo (Avina) Zarate.

Ruth attended Bloom Township High School & Prairie Bible Institute in Alberta, Canada. In 1973 Ruth did missionary work in Mexico & Nogales, Arizona. Ruth worked as a grade school teacher at Oak Forest Christian Academy from 1973 to 1992, and Oak Forest Hospital from August 1994 to February 2010.

Ruth is survived by sisters Consuelo Zarate, Naomi (Arthur) Pina, Linda Leal, brothers Emilio, Jr (LuAnn), Samuel (Sue), Albert, numerous nieces & nephews. Ruth was preceded in death by sisters Cora (late Tony) Padilla, Esther (late Joseph) Tijerina, and preceded in death by brother Rosendo Sr. (late Ann).

Ruth was a woman of great faith, who loved the Lord, Jesus Christ. She was an avid reader, especially about biblical characters, and loved listening to Christian music. Ruth enjoyed eating out with family and friends, especially Round The Clock. Her favorite pastime was shopping at Thrift stores, looking for treasures.

Ruth fought her cancer bravely until the end. Ruth had a giving spirit and will be truly missed.

A visitation with family and friends will be held on Thursday, March 6, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 12:00 noon at Dyer Baptist Church, 735 – 213th St. Dyer, IN with Rev. Lee Atkinson officiating.  A private interment will be held at Skyline Memorial Cemetery, Monee, Illinois.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Ruth’s memory may be made to the Dyer Baptist Church 735 - 213th Street, Dyer, Indiana 46311, or Plum Creek Christian Academy, 1300 Calumet Avenue, Dyer, Indiana, 46311.

Arrangements entrusted to Smits Funeral Home – Dyer, IN.  For further information, please contact 219-322-7300 or visit our online obituary and guestbook at www.SMITSFH.com