Ruth Barker

Ruth Ann (Sergeant) Geagea Barker, age 82, of Holland, passed away Monday, October 7, 2024 at Appledorn Assisted Living. The daughter of Robert N. Sergeant and Ruth Sigrid Knudstrup Sergeant, she was born on December 23, 1941, in Battle Creek. Ruth leaves a legacy of intelligence, active accumulation of higher education, and a huge caring heart. She was educated as an RN at Michigan State University and earned her Master’s Degree in Public Health from the University of Michigan. Her quest for knowledge in all aspects of life and her fullest love for her family caused her to become an expert in multiple fields, including elder care and Alzheimer’s research. She was active in Weight Watchers and served as an editor of their magazine for years and she spent years in the travel industry while living with her husband in Los Angeles. Her final years were spent in Saugatuck and Holland where she served as Parish Nurse for the Community Church of Douglas for fifteen years. An active member of P.E.O. for many years, she contributed her time and financial support to women of all ages. Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, Robert & Ruth Sergeant; her first husband, whom she married in 1970, Ibraheim Geagea; and her second husband, whom she married in 1988, Lee Barker. Ruth is survived by cousins from the Sergeant, Knudstrup, and Geagea sides of her family. Her vivacious personality, zest for life, and caring presence have had a ripple effect on so many people throughout her life. She was loved and will be missed by all. Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 9th, 2024 at the Community Church of Douglas (6874 Wiley Road, Fennville). Instead of flowers, Ruth would have appreciated contributions in her memory to P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship (https://www.peointernational.org/make-a-gift/#donate) or the Community Church of Douglas (https://ccofdouglas.churchcenter.com/giving) To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Ruth’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, 616-452-3006. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Ruth Barker, please visit our flower store.