Ruth Mary (nee Krell) Pignatari

Ruth Mary Pignatari (nee Krell), 92, of Phillips, formerly of Highwood, IL, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 12, 2025, surrounded by loving family. She was born on December 20, 1932, to John and Caroline (Carrie) in Kennan, WI. Ruth graduated from Phillips High School in 1950. Not long after, she moved to Evanston, Illinois, where fate introduced her to Victor Pignatari—the man who caught her eye from across the dance floor. They married on September 11, 1953, at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Alaska. Ruth often reminisced fondly about their early days as newlyweds in Anchorage, calling it one of the happiest times of her life.

A devout Catholic, Ruth’s faith was a cornerstone of her life, both in the pews of Sunday Mass and in her everyday actions. She was also a passionate supporter of Alcoholics Anonymous, where she found strength and connection during her journey through recovery. Ruth helped guide many friends and loved ones toward the same path of healing. She would encourage anyone struggling with addiction to seek help through a 12-step program. Ruth dedicated much of her life to caring for her family. She also worked part-time at Mastercraft Dry Cleaners and later as a receptionist at St. Benedict’s Abbey.

Above all, Ruth’s greatest joy came from spending time with those she loved most—her close-knit circle of family and friends. Time with Ruth was filled with simple pleasures and lots of laughter. She enjoyed playing cards, dancing, singing, cooking, baking, rocking on the glider, an occasional smoke, watching Wheel of Fortune, Italian food, traveling, and volunteering. Ruth’s friends and family cherished every moment. Her bold, vibrant spirit left an impression on everyone she met. And one thing never changed: she always knew how to make us laugh.

Ruth is survived by her five children, Andrew (Kate) Little Suamico, WI, Dennis (Barb), Gurnee, IL, Jane (Jack) Harding, Highwood, IL, Victor, Grayslake, IL, and Caroline (Greg) Otto, Kennan; by ten grandchildren, six great grandchildren, her sisters, Helen Krings and Marie Foss, and her brother, John Krell. She is preceded in death by her husband, Victor Pignatari, and her sister, Germaine Wayt. Ruth’s legacy lives on in the joy she brought to our lives, and she will be deeply missed. We trust that she is now in heaven, reunited with her mother, husband, family, and friends—already bringing joy and laughter to them, just as she did here.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Aspirus Regency House and Hope Hospice for the exceptional care and compassion they provided.

Funeral Mass for Ruth will be held on Friday, July 18th at 11:00 am at St. Paul the  Apostle Catholic Church in Catawba, WI with a visitation from 10:30 am till time of service.  Burial will following at Kennan Cemetery and then a luncheon at

Happy Daze in Kennan.

Online condolences may be shared at nimsgernfuneral.com

HEINDL-NIMSGERN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES IS SERVING THE FAMILY.