Ruby was born February 25, 1923 in rural Pierson to Fritz & Minnie (Knaack) Bohle. She graduated from Pierson High School and completed Normal School to become certified as a teacher. Ruby taught in Wolf Creek Country School before marrying Arthur Gernhart on October 11, 1947 in Kingsley. The couple lived on a farm by Pierson where they were blessed with their first three children; they relocated to a farm east of Moville where 2 more children completed their loving family. Ruby was given the gift of hospitality and through this, developed her deep love of serving others. She was an incredible baker who specialized in cinnamon rolls and pies. Ruby was a charismatic woman who adored her husband, family and friends. Her hobbies included gardening, ball room dancing and playing cards.

She was a member of Rock Branch United Methodist Church where she served for many years as a youth group leader and communion steward.

Left to honor her memory are her daughters: Linda (Lyle) Fikse, Diane Wheeler (fiancé, Mark Zielezinski), and Joy (Dennis) Beaver; sons: Alan Gernhart (fiancée, Linda Nepper), and Dr. Kelly (Cyndi) Gernhart, grandchildren: Janelle (Kyle) Brouwer, Dr. Chad (Lynnette) Fikse, Jessica Wheeler, Rebecca (Nick) O’Brien, Stephen Wheeler, Brooke Beaver, Landon Beaver, Dr. Ellie (Matt Bishop), Gina Gernhart, Carlie (fiancé, Cody Leal) and Juli Gernhart, and great-grandchildren: Abbie, Ian & Tory Bishop, Cade & Morgan Brouwer, Evan, Kendra & Laura Fikse, and Bree & Paige O’Brien.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Arthur Gernhart; companion, Joe Campbell, three sisters: Irene, Irma, Elsie; one brother, Bill; a daughter-in-law, Charlotte Gernhart and many extended relatives and friends.