Ruth Doreen Mentzer

Our sadness right now shows just how much we loved our Mom, Grandma, and Great-Grandma. Saying goodbye is never easy, but it brings us comfort knowing she's in heaven, walking with our loving God. That faith gives us peace.

Ruth was born in Whittier, California on December 26, 1932, to William John Cook Sr. and Hilda Frances Vincent. The family moved to Medford when she was young, and that's where she graduated from Medford High School.

That's also where she met the love of her life, Don Mentzer. They were married for 67 wonderful years. Don and Ruth loved riding his Harley and going to dances before settling down and raising two great boys: Art (Pam) and Ron (Jeanie).

Steamboating was a big part of Ruth and Don's life together, and she loved spending time with family and friends.

Ruth was preceded in death by her husband Don, son Art, brothers Bill, Dean, and Bud Cook, and sisters Virginia Sharp, Joan Lown and Barbara Whisenant. She's survived by her son Ron and his wife Jeanie, daughter-in-law Pam, grandchildren Annie, Seth (Trista), Andy, and Sarah (Phil), six great-grandchildren Taylor, Peyton, Haylee, Ruth, MaryJo, and Philip, and her sister Betty Cavanagh.

A graveside service will take place for Ruth at Hillcrest Cemetery in Medford, Oregon on Monday, February 9th, 2026 at 2:00 PM.