Obituary of Ruth Ann Denker

Ruth Ann (Van Ness) Denker, 85, of Harmony Township, NJ, passed away peacefully on Friday, Sept. 26, 2025. Born on June 16, 1940 in Rahway, NJ, she was the daughter of the late Mary (Remich) Van Ness.

On August 28, 1962, Ruth married the love of her life, the late Richard “Dick” Denker, Sr., and together they shared 59 years of love, laughter, and family life in Harmony Township.

Ruth devoted much of her life to raising her children, creating a loving home full of traditions and care. Once they were older, she took on the role of head chef in the cafeteria at Phillipsburg Catholic High School, later All Saints Regional, where her kindness and dedication left a lasting mark on students and staff alike. In her later years, Ruth found her greatest joy in being more than just a grandmother. She was a true “Nanny,” a constant source of love, support, and guidance for her grandchildren.

She had many joys in life; traveling the world on cruises with Richard and friends, hunting for treasures while antiquing or at craft shows, and transforming her home with a decorative eye. Her children and grandchildren will carry those traditions forward in her honor. Above all else, Ruth was devoted to her children and grandchildren, and nothing brought her more joy than supporting and celebrating them.

Ruth is survived by her three children: Lisa of Harmony Township, NJ, Rick and his partner Maria of Northampton, PA, and Christian and his husband Tim of Easton, PA. She was the proud Nanny of four grandchildren: Desiree and her fiancée Brette, Nicole and her partner Patrick, Holly and her husband Brandon, and Aaron. Ruth was overjoyed to be great-Nanny to Chase, Jordyn, and Peyton. She is also survived by a brother Bill and many nieces and nephews.

Ruth’s circle of love also included her beloved dog, Koda, and her “grand dogs,” Lincoln and Arlo, who brought her endless joy and companionship.

A Graveside Service of Christian Burial will be held 11:00 AM on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at Montana Cemetery in Harmony Township, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ruth’s memory to the Harmony Township Volunteer Fire Department. 

Ruth lived a full and joyful life, filled with travel, laughter, and love. She found her greatest happiness in the company of her family and friends, and her stories, humor, and spirit will live on in all who knew her. She will be remembered for her love of family (both two- and four-legged) and the traditions she built that will carry on for generations.