Ruth L. Lane

On March 21, 2014, Ruth L. Lane crossed over the Rainbow Bridge to join her many beloved cats and dogs who preceded her.

Long known as "The Cat Lady," for her loving care, dedication and sacrifice for countless homeless felines, she, along with her equally caring and dedicated companion, John Trunk, founded a cat shelter in their home, which evolved into Cats 'n' Us, now the Tuscarawas County Humane Society Cat Shelter.

Born October 27, 1916, in Dover, she was a daughter of the late William and Veda Kaserman Swinehart. Ruth was an excellent student and was an honored graduate of New Philadelphia High School. She was a devoted mother grandmother and great-grandmother, and was employed by the Sparta Ceramic Co. at East Sparta for thirty years, retiring in 1979. She was a lifelong learner and a voracious reader, who especially liked poetry. Additionally, she played the piano and often entertained others with her musical abilities which included whistling.

Survivors include her daughter, Nancy Rogers of Magnolia; her four sons, Bruce Walton (Suzie) of Homestead, Florida, Gilbert "Dale" Walton of Tampa, Florida, Terry (Linda) and Thurman "Toby" Walton, both of New Philadelphia; her long-time companion, John Trunk of New Philadelphia; her thirty-one grandchildren; her numerous great-grandchildren; her sister, Maxine Baird of Troy, Ohio; and her many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Ruth was preceded in death by her second husband, Grover Lane, Jr.; her son, James "Mick" Walton; her grandson, Gary E. Rogers, Jr.; and her six brothers, Donald, Jack, Robert, Dave, William and Howard Swinehart.

Honoring Ruth's wishes, no visitation or funeral ceremony will be held. The family suggests that contributions in Ruth's memory be made to Rascal Charities, 6365 Old Avery Rd., Ste. 9, Dublin, Ohio 43016, www.rascalunit.com. To sign an online guestbook and share a fond memory of Ruth, please visit the Obituaries and Flowers link on the Toland-Herzig website.

Funeral Home:
Toland-Herzig New Philadelphia
246 E. High Ave.
New Philadelphia, OH
US 44663