April 15, 1947 — June 14, 2015

Ruth Ann “Red” Nash, 68, of Dowagiac, passed away suddenly with her family at her side at Lee Memorial Hospital on June 14, 2015.

Red was born on April 15, 1947, in Dowagiac, the daughter of the late Ernest and Joan Ruth (Steininger) Nash. She was a graduate of Dowagiac Union High School with the class of 1965, and obtained her degree in nursing with the first graduating class at Southwestern Michigan College in 1968.

Red had a heart of gold and dedicated her life to caring for people.  Throughout her career in healthcare, she lovingly took care of patients in various nursing home settings.

Red loved to cook, spend time with her grandkids, her little dog, “Baby,” trips to “the slots,”  crocheting and knitting. She loved her iced tea.

Most importantly, Red’s family was the center of her life.  Those left to cherish her memory include her partner of 45 years, Jim Hartman; four sons, Jeffrey “Jeff” (Lisa Weaver), Tobin “Toby” (Heather), James “Jimmy” and Anthony “Tony” Nash, all of Dowagiac; one brother, William (Kathy) Nash of Decatur, and her four loving grandchildren, Cooper and Erica, Jade and Zoie.

Red was preceded in death by her parents and two daughters, Jamie Lynn and Angel Marie.

In accordance with Red’s wishes, cremation has taken place.  A memorial service remembering Red will be held on Saturday, June 27 at 11:30 a.m. in the Dowagiac First United Methodist Church with Pastor Kellas Penny officiating.  A luncheon will follow.  Memorial donations in memory of Red may be directed to the Dowagiac First United Methodist Church.