Ruth Mary Pignatari, 92, Phillips

Ruth Mary Pignatari (nee Krell), 92, of Phillips, formerly of Highwood, IL, passed away peacefully on
Friday, July 12, 2025, surrounded by loving family. She was born on December 20, 1932, to John
and Caroline (Carrie) in Kennan, WI. Ruth graduated from Phillips High School in 1950. Not long
after, she moved to Evanston, Illinois, where fate introduced her to Victor Pignatari—the man who
caught her eye from across the dance floor. They married on September 11, 1953, at Elmendorf Air
Force Base in Alaska. Ruth often reminisced fondly about their early days as newlyweds in
Anchorage, calling it one of the happiest times of her life.
A devout Catholic, Ruth’s faith was a cornerstone of her life, both in the pews of Sunday Mass and in
her everyday actions. She was also a passionate supporter of Alcoholics Anonymous, where she
found strength and connection during her journey through recovery. Ruth helped guide many friends
and loved ones toward the same path of healing. She would encourage anyone struggling with
addiction to seek help through a 12-step program. Ruth dedicated much of her life to caring for her
family. She also worked part-time at Mastercraft Dry Cleaners and later as a receptionist at St.
Benedict’s Abbey.
Above all, Ruth’s greatest joy came from spending time with those she loved most—her close-knit
circle of family and friends. Time with Ruth was filled with simple pleasures and lots of laughter. She
enjoyed playing cards, dancing, singing, cooking, baking, rocking on the glider, an occasional
smoke, watching Wheel of Fortune, Italian food, traveling, and volunteering. Ruth’s friends and
family cherished every moment. Her bold, vibrant spirit left an impression on everyone she met. And
one thing never changed: she always knew how to make us laugh.
Ruth is survived by her five children, Andrew (Kate) Little Suamico, WI, Dennis (Barb), Gurnee, IL,
Jane (Jack) Harding, Highwood, IL, Victor, Grayslake, IL, and Caroline (Greg) Otto, Kennan; by ten
grandchildren, six great grandchildren, her sisters, Helen Krings and Marie Foss, and her brother,
John Krell. She is preceded in death by her husband, Victor Pignatari, and her sister, Germaine
Wayt. Ruth’s legacy lives on in the joy she brought to our lives, and she will be deeply missed. We
trust that she is now in heaven, reunited with her mother, husband, family, and friends—already
bringing joy and laughter to them, just as she did here.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Aspirus Regency House and Hope Hospice
for the exceptional care and compassion they provided.
​Funeral Mass for Ruth will be held on Friday, July 18th at 11:00 am at St. Paul the
Apostle Catholic Church in Catawba, WI with a visitation from 10:30 am till time of
service.  Burial will following at Kennan Cemetery and then a luncheon at
Happy Daze in Kennan.
Online condolences may be shared at nimsgernfuneral.com
HEINDL-NIMSGERN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES IS SERVING THE FAMILY.