Ruth Hatala, 90 years, of Fort Madison, Iowa died at 6:42 am Saturday, June 23, 2012 at the Fort Madison Community Hospital, Fort Madison, Iowa. She was born December 26, 1921 in Henry County, Iowa, near Mt. Union, a daughter of William L. and Ethel Eugenia (Kelly) Finke. On October 2, 1949 at Fort Madison, Iowa, she married Louis Henry Hatala. He preceded her in death on June 19, 1973.

Mrs. Hatala had been a resident of the area since 1941. She worked as a secretary at DuPont and the former First Miss, Inc. She was a member of the Fort Madison United Methodist Church.

Over the years Ruth enjoyed her flowers, gardening and cooking for her family when they visited. Ruth truly loved each and every member of her family. She was the happiest when she was spending time traveling to visit or just being with them. As a Grandmather the littlest family members always brought her much joy and laughter. Ruth loved having fun playing cards and games while enjoying a late night pizza with her family. Family, friends and her church were a very important part of her life and brought her much joy.

She is survived by one son, Dan (wife: Mary) Hatala, of Waverly, Iowa; one daughter, Judy (husband: Charles) Stubbs, of Tjeras, New Mexico; one step-son, John (wife: Linda) Hatala, of Huntington Beach, California; one brother, Fred Finke, of New London, Iowa; one sister, Lois A. Finke, of New London, Iowa; three grandchildren, seven step-grandchildren, fourteen step-great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, sister, B. Avon Finke,and two step-daughters, Darlene Graham and Nancy Fournier.

Friends may call after 1:00 pm Tuesday, June 26, 2012 at the Barr Memorial Chapel, where the family will meet friends from 5:00 - 7:00 pm Tuesday evening. A funeral service will be held at 10:30 am Wednesday, June 27, 2012 at the Barr Memorial Chapel, with Reverend Brenda Goodall, officiating. Burial will be at Oakland Cemetery, Fort Madison, Iowa. A memorial has been established for the Fort Madison United Methodist Church, contributions may be made at the Barr Memorial Chapel.