Ruth B. Lewis

Ruth B. Lewis, aged 96, departed from this world on November 21, 2023. She was the beloved daughter of the late Louis and Angie Peso Babick, and the loving sister to the late Lorraine Schumacher and George Babick. Ruth was the cherished wife of the late Keith E Lewis, a devoted mother to her sons Dr. Trevor (Betsy) Lewis, Scott (Lauren) Lewis, and daughter Darcy Lewis (David) Diggs. She was also a fond grandmother to Charlie, Charlotte, Emily, James, Keith, Lane, Madyn, Sara, Taft, and William.

Born on December 18, 1926, Ruth graduated from Hirsch High School in Chicago, Ill. and embarked on a career in advertising with the Earl Ludkin Agency. She took the advertising world by storm, quickly rising to the position of buyer where she met her future husband, Keith E Lewis. The couple spent their formative years working in Chicago’s advertising industry and were avid fans of Northwestern football, Keith’s alma matter.

In 1963, Ruth and Keith purchased The Narrows Resort in Minocqua, an establishment that became the centerpiece of their summers. Over the past 60 years, her dedication to the resort transformed it into an annual gathering spot for hundreds of families. In addition to innkeeping, Ruth enjoyed a successful career in real estate on Chicago’s North Shore.

A lifelong resident of Wilmette, Ill. Ruth actively participated in the New Trier Republican Club, Wilmette Women’s Club, and Koenig and Strey Real Estate. Ruth was a fixture at her sons’ sporting events and loved spending time with her beloved dogs Charlie, Ollie, and Sally. Her avid interest in politics endured, and she found joy in spending holidays with family and friends. She also enjoyed spending time in Wisconsin’s Northwoods.

Of her many roles, the one she cherished most was that of “Nana” to her ten grandchildren. She was a constant presence in their lives, attending school events, sports games, and family gatherings, always offering her wisdom. She delighted in their achievements, celebrated their milestones, and imparted to them the values that shaped her own remarkable journey.

Ruth’s legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched and the memories she created with those she loved. May she rest in peace.

A Funeral Mass was held November 25, 2023 at Saints Joseph & Francis Xavier Parish – Saint Francis Xavier Church, 524 9th Street, Wilmette, IL 60091.