Ruth Ellen Schaeffler

Ruth was born in Brooklyn on July 14, 1944. Her parents and grandparents also came from Brooklyn. She often spoke fondly of her grandpa Hawkins who delighted in taking her to local attractions and restaurants in Brooklyn. Ruth was actually raised in Hicksville, NY. She met her future husband “Artie” in kindergarten and they started dating in high school. Ruth and Art were married for 57 years.

She is survived by her loving husband Art Schaeffler and their three children, Kris Drago (John), David Schaeffler (Beth), Amy Poulos (Brian), and 7 grandchildren - Matt Drago, Jack Drago, Andrew Schaeffler, Ryan Schaeffler, Anna Schaeffler, Nick Poulos, Nate Poulos, and her brothers - John Cranmer (Helene), Robert Cranmer, James Cranmer (Carolyn), and Richard Cranmer (Nancy). Ruth was predeceased by her loving brother Tom Cranmer.

In 1980 Ruth was asked to join the administrative staff at Usdan Center for the Creative and Performing Arts. At the beginning she was mostly working from home with 1-year old Amy and Muffin (lhasa apso) by her side. Her career at Usdan continued for 30 years. Ruth was passionate about the camp and always did her best for the children and families that she registered.

After retirement Ruth and Art enjoyed traveling. Their favorite trips were with the whole family to Disney and cruises in the Caribbean. Trips to Europe with friends, cruises and short getaways were always on the calendar. She loved traveling and appreciated that she was able to do it, but always said it feels so good to be home. Ruth did like being home with family and attended countless concerts and sporting events. Being a cheerleader and spoiling her grandchildren was her favorite pastime.

To know her was to love her. Ruth was kind, caring, thoughtful, and appreciated the many friends that she had. Her calendar was filled with luncheon dates that were not so much about food but hours of conversation. She will be missed by many.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations in her name to the Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts Scholarship Fund (usdan.org).

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.