Germaine C. Ruhl, 89, of Neenah, WI. Passed away on July 22, 2011. She was born on July 13, 1922, in Oshkosh, the only child of Raymond and Elsie (Penzenstadler) Winkler. Her mother passed away when Germaine was four years old and she was later blessed with two step siblings, Robert Reich who preceded her in death, and Corinne Reich Drexler, Oshkosh, when her father married Eva Reich.

Germaine wed George E. Ruhl on June 17, 1944 and lived in Oshkosh for the first twenty-three years of marriage. They relocated to Neenah in 1967. She enjoyed gardening, bowling, golfing, and was an avid sports fan. Family and friends share many memories of spectacular annual Christmas parties which she prepared for all year long.

Germaine started her career with Schmitt Abstract & Title, Oshkosh in 1940 at the age of eighteen. She enjoyed her work there very much, became the office manager and retired from Schmitt Abstract & Title in 1991.

Germaine was preceded in death by her husband, George, in 2006. Germaine is survived by her step sister Corrine Reich Drexler, nephews and nieces, close friends, Bernice Hahn and family, Jackie and Tom Martin and family, and a very special "adopted godson" Nicholas Martin.


Germaine was a member of St.Gabriel Parish since 1967. She is grateful to Father Richard Allen for the help and support she has received over the past years. Special thanks also go out to Dr. Steven Knaus and associates, the Theda Care Home Care and Hospice Team, the care team at Living Tree Estates Assisted Living, and friends and neighbors for all their help and support.

A memorial mass will be celebrated on Thursday, July 28, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Gabriel Catholic Church, 900 Geiger St., Neenah. Memorials in lieu of flowers would be appreciated.