Ruth Anne Milham's Obituary
Ruth Anne Milham, age 78, passed away on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born May 23, 1947, to John and Catherine (Walcott) McIntosh, Ruth spent most of her childhood in Grand Haven. She graduated from Grand Haven High School in 1965, continuing her education at the University of Wisconsin and Grand Valley State University, where she earned her degree in finance and computer science. After graduation, she worked at WGVU, becoming Director of Administration and Information Systems. On September 4, 1982, she married the love of her life, Mark Milham; together they cherished 42 years of marriage. As their youngest son, Michael, reached school age, Ruth changed careers to become a Montessori teacher at Michigan Dunes Montessori, known as “Mrs. Ruth” to countless young schoolchildren. Ruth loved traveling; she and Michael would spend their summers in Rome, staying with her daughter Melisa and son-in-law Bob, venturing around Europe together. Proud of her Scottish heritage, Ruth and her family went to Scotland, exploring Edinburgh along with the Highlands and the Isle of Skye with an eye for McIntosh clan history. Ruth Anne will be remembered as a voracious reader with a love for hardcover books, often with a good cup of coffee and a pair of fun socks. But most of all she'll be remembered as a devoted mother and Nana who deeply loved her children and grandchildren. She is survived by her husband, Mark Milham; son, Michael (Jordan) Milham; three grandchildren, Colette, Luke and Giulia; two brothers, Jack (Jane) McIntosh and James McIntosh; son-in-law, Robert Bockrath; and nephew Colin (Kim) McIntosh. She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Melisa Bockrath; son, Derek Marra; and nephew, Christopher McIntosh. Arrangements entrusted to The Walburn Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 1547 W. Sherman Blvd., Muskegon, MI 49441. Share memories with the family at https://www.sytsemafh.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Ruth?
What’s a lesson you learned from Ruth?
Share a story where Ruth's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Ruth you’ll never forget.
How did Ruth make you smile?