Ruth Phylis Pikul

Ruth Phylis (Ackley) Pikul, 101, recently of Berrien Springs, Michigan, passed away on May 24, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family after a long life marked by faith, devotion, and kindness. She was born on February 25, 1925, in Monson, Massachusetts, to Gladys Irene (Partelo) Ackley and Willis Sameul Ackley. Ruth lived a life that reflected the values she held dear, and she will be remembered as a loving, kind, and faith-filled woman whose gentle spirit touched many lives.

On January 14, 1948, Ruth was united in marriage to Edward Joseph Pikul. Ruth and Ed raised their family in Palmer, Massachusetts where they attended Faith Baptist Church. Together they shared many years of marriage and built a family rooted in love, commitment, and Christian faith. Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her daughter Mary Postema, and her sisters Alice Stockman, Helen Pikul, Lois Carrier, Shirley Laviolette, and Gladys Hannum. Though these losses were deeply felt, Ruth carried herself with grace and strength, trusting in God’s care throughout her life.

Ruth was a devoted Christian and a longtime member and regular attender of Highland Hills Baptist Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Her faith was central to who she was, and she found joy in serving others through her church and in living out her beliefs each day. She was known for her steady presence, her warm heart, and her willingness to help wherever she was needed. Her life was a quiet testimony of service, humility, and love for others. 

Ruth enjoyed many simple and meaningful pleasures throughout her life. She loved sewing, seamstress alterations, knitting, cross stitch, reading, flower gardening, baking, cooking, camping, walking, and skiing. She took pride in using her hands to create, mend, and care for others, and she found happiness in both the beauty of nature and the comfort of home. Her talents and interests were shared generously with those around her, and she brought warmth and skill to everything she did.

In later years, Ruth moved to Berrien Springs to be near her daughter Jane. She is survived by her daughters Jane and her husband Jim Markle, and May and her husband Paul Blando; her sister Dorothy Raymond; eight grandchildren; twenty-five great-grandchildren; and ten great- great-grandchildren. Her family was a source of great joy to her, and she treasured each generation that followed. Ruth’s legacy lives on in the lives of those who knew her, loved her, and were shaped by her example.

Ruth Phylis Pikul will be remembered for her steadfast faith, her loving nature, and the many ways she blessed her family and community. Her life was a beautiful reflection of devotion to God, dedication to family, and kindness toward others. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of love that will continue to be cherished for generations to come.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Allred Funeral Home of Berrien Springs, MI. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at Highland Hills Baptist Church, 1415 Northrup NW, Grand Rapids, MI. A time of visitation is planned for an hour before the service. There will be a luncheon following the service. Ruth will be laid to rest next to her husband in Massachusetts. Details for a service of interment are forthcoming. Gifts in memory of Ruth can be sent to The PACT Romania Ministry Center of ABWE, PO Box 8585, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8585.