Ruth Ann Vermilya

Ruth Ann Vermilya, 83, of Onaway, died Tuesday, February 9, 2021 at Golden Beach Manor in Ocqueoc. The daughter of Clarence and Lucy (Cooper) Stockwell, Ruth was born in Deford May 1, 1937. Blessed with 63 years of marriage at the time of his death in 2017, Ruth married Ned E. Vermilya Sr. August 21, 1954 in Rogers City. They made their home in Onaway for a time before moving to Southfield where they lived until Ned retired in 1990. Ned and Ruth didn’t waste any time moving back home to Onaway to enjoy their retirement years. Always together, it was rare to see Ruth without Ned. They bought a place in Florida to spend the winter months, took up golf, and were always anxious to return to Onaway in the spring.   

A homemaker, devoted wife and proud mother, Ruth made a loving home for her family.  She was an excellent seamstress and quilter who sewed much of her family’s clothing as well as making quilts for the new babies and to give as gifts. A fantastic baker, Ruth’s homemade bread, cookies and pies were simply delicious. Anything prepared in her kitchen was home-cooked and whether it was a big pot of chili or deep-dish lasagna it was tasty. When she wasn’t cooking or homemaking, Ruth enjoyed painting. Her painting skills were learned from watching Bob Ross on television and she also enjoyed ceramic painting.  She was an avid deer hunter who enjoyed deer season in northern Michigan as well as hunting trips out West with her husband.  In 1990, Ruth shot her dream buck; the biggest buck she had ever taken.  She was extremely proud of her 8-point with its incredible spread that earned her a place in the Boone and Crocket Club.         

Surviving Ruth are three sons, Ned Vermilya

Jr., Dale (Julie) Vermilya and Brian (Stephanie) Vermilya, all of Onaway; two daughters, Sheryl (Brad) Hilliker of Afton and Terry (George) Jabro of Onaway; seven grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren. Ruth also leaves her brother, Everett (Gail) Stockwell of Wixom; sister-in-law, Mary Ann Stockwell of Onaway; as well as her family at Golden Beach Manor who gave Ruth exceptional and compassionate care this past year. 

Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Ned; a son, Mitchell; a grandson, Doug Jr.; and brothers, Fred, Stanley and Nelson Stockwell.

A private visitation was held at Chagnon Funeral Home with a graveside service at North Allis Township Cemetery planned for a later date. Those planning an expression of sympathy please consider a donation in memory of Ruth to the Alzheimer’s Association.