Ruth J. Else (nee Sausman), age 75, of Valparaiso passed away peacefully Thursday, May 31, 2018 surrounded by her family. She was born on October 8, 1942 in Plymouth, Indiana to the late Wilbur and Dorothy Sausman. She was a 1963 graduate of Portage High School. On October 22, 1966 in Lake Station, she married Thomas Else. Ruth and her husband, Tom enjoyed helping many people over the years. Together they sponsored two Vietnamese boys, brought them to the United States, taught them English and raised them as their own. Ruth was an avid gardener and enjoyed growing and canning vegetables. She will always be remembered for her dedication to taking care of her family.

Ruth is survived by her sons, Bill (Elisa) Else of Kouts, Thomas Else of Chesterton, Vi (Linda) Trieu of Los Angeles, Khanh (Stephanie) Trieu of Chicago; 6 grandchildren, Devenne, Jenna (Kyle McGregor), Thomas, Harry, Isaak and Michael; 2 great grandchildren, Shane and Leyla; brother, Larry Sausman; sister, Janice Sausman; many other loving family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Else; sister, Helen Kilmer; brothers, Jim, Thomas, Bill and Terry Sausman.

A funeral service for Ruth will take place Thursday, June 7, 2018 at 7:00 pm at Rees Funeral Home, Hobart Chapel, 600 West Old Ridge Road, Hobart with Ehren Joseph officiating. Visitation will be held Thursday from 2:00 pm until the time of service at the funeral home. For more information, please call (219) 942-2109. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com .