Ruth Ellen (nee Clarke) Johnston of Hales Corners passed away peacefully on January 14th, 2020, at the age of 83. Survived by her daughter Monica (David) Gnat, her son Byron, her granddaughters Katie and Aimie Gnat, and her sister-in-law Arlene Fluto. Preceded in death by her husband Edwin, and parents John and Ruth Clarke.

Ruth was smart, creative, and artistic. She enjoyed gardening and bird watching. She was a voracious reader, especially of mysteries and history – and the history of her beloved Hales Corners most of all. This love of her city led her to a long-time membership in the Hales Corner Historical Society.

She was a "grammar guru" who spent much of her life working as an editor at various small technical publishers, eventually retiring from Almon, Inc.


Thank you to Katherine of At Home Loving Care for all your help in the past couple of months. Our deepest gratitude to Lindsey, Jill, Dawn, Abby, and all those at Aurora At Home for the wonderful medical care you provided for Ruth and for the patient way you handled our many questions and concerns.

If desired, memorials to the Wisconsin Humane Society are appreciated. Ruth was an avid animal lover who got several dogs from there and it would make her happy to know other animals are receiving care in her name.

Visitation at Hartson Funeral Home on Monday, January 20th from 4 to 6 PM. Funeral Service 6 PM.