Ruth L. Bazzel (Abbott-Fisher)

Ruth L. Bazzel age 95 died on March 27, 2026, of natural causes while residing in Fairlawn, Ohio. Ruth was born in Trenton, New Jersey. She attended Trenton Central High School and while attending high school, Ruth studied modern dance at the Martha Graham Studio in New York City. Following graduation, she enrolled as a dance major at the University of Wisconsin in Madison.

Married, Ruth moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin and attended Milwaukee State Teacher College majoring in early childhood education. Moving to Akron in 1952, she attended the University of Akron and received a degree of Master of Science in Education. Ruth was hired as a teacher for the Developmental Pre-School of United Disability Services where she taught and then became Pre-School Director. She was responsible for the education of 120 two to five year old children with disabilities. After 30 years with the agency, she retired in 1995.

Since her retirement, Ruth devoted her time to volunteering at the Salvation Army, Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, Akron General Hospice of VNS, and Montrose Zion United Methodist Church Bell Choir. Ruth had a love for children, travel, nature and dance.

Ruth is preceded in death by parents Roderic C. and Gertrude Bazzel, brother Carlton (Anna) Bazzel. She is survived by daughters Linda (Mike Miller) Collart, Conesus, New York; Nancy Abbott, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio; Jeanne (Jeff Stemen) Abbott, Columbus, Ohio; grandchildren Aaron, Rose, and Cole; and many close friends.

Ruth will be cremated and a memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 2:00 pm at Billows Funeral Home at 85 North Miller Road in Fairlawn. A gathering for family and friends to celebrate her life will immediately follow the service and will be held at Billow’s. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.