Ruth Oja

She was born on Nov. 30, 1954, in Ishpeming, the daughter of Arleen (Pearce) and the late William Spencer Felt.

Ruth graduated from National Mine High School in 1972 and attended Northern Michigan University.

She was a victim’s advocate for more than 27 years, working for the Caring House, Delta County Alliance, and has been running the program at Hannahville Potawatomi Indian Community for more than 20 years. Her efforts have helped rebuild and empower countless women, helping them escape domestic violence situations.

Ruth is survived by her son, Jeremy Oja of Norway; daughter, Devon (Emil) Walsh of North Carolina; grandsons, Justice and Leo; mother, Arleen Felt of Ishpeming; sisters, Roberta (Terry) Minzey of Ishpeming and Beth Felt of Marquette; and several nieces and nephews.

Family will greet friends from 4 to 5 p.m. Thursday, June 7 at the Ortman Funeral Home in Norway.

A memorial service will follow at 5 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

Family suggests memorial contributions may be made to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV).

Condolences to the family of Ruth may be expressed online at www.ortmanfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements were made with the Ortman Funeral Home in Norway.