I, Ruth Viola (Lenz) Kerbel, was born on October, 29th, 1924, in Park City, Montana to George and Ida Lenz. My family moved to Sheridan, Wyoming, in 1929 when I was five years old. My journey in The Missouri Synod Lutheran Church began with my baptism on November, 27th, 1924. It continued with my confirmation on April, 10th, 1938.

On August 23rd, 1942, I married the love of my life, Bill Kerbel. Bill and I moved to a dairy farm and cattle ranch in Banner. In addition to caring for our dairy, we raised three children and spent many years fostering 4H members to succeed with their projects.

I continued to be very active in serving my church, including teaching Sunday school. My service to my church lead me to join LWML (Lutheran Women's Missionary League) in which I became an active member and served several years as Wyoming District President. After attending Immanuel Lutheran Church in Sheridan for over 45 years, Bill and I decided to become members of the mission congregation, Prince of Peace, in Buffalo in order to help the congregation grow.

After my husband Bill's passing in 1989, I moved to Sheridan and thought it to be quite natural to rejoin my brothers and sisters in Christ at Immanuel Lutheran Church. I continued to serve the Lord by making numerous banners and serving on our Altar Guild, as well as continuing my work with LWML. I also loved my time working on the hospital auxiliary board at the hospital that embraced me until I took my heavenly flight.

I am preceded in death by my husband Bill Kerbel, my parents George and Ida Lenz, and brothers Ralph and Howard Lenz.

I am survived by my sister Helen Sembra, my three loving children and their families, Bill and Kathy Kerbel, Jim and Sue Kerbel, Phyllis and Jody Fournier. Children have always lit up my life and I was blessed with 8 grandchildren, and 14 great grandchildren. I also have been blessed by countless local adopted grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, I request that memorials be made to Lutheran Women's Missionary League (LWML) Mission Projects, in care of Immanuel Lutheran Church. I would like to thank everyone who has loved me and enriched my life.

Ruth V. Kerbel, 87, of Sheridan, WY died Wednesday, August 29, 2012, in Memorial Hospital of Sheridan County.

Viewing will be 6:00pm until 8:00pm on Monday (Sept. 3rd) from Champion Ferries Funeral Home with funeral service at 10:00am on Tuesday from Immanuel Lutheran Church with Pastor Paul Cain officiating. Interment will be in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

SheridanMedia.com - August 30, 2012.