OTTAWA – Ruth Ann Stechschulte, 84, of Ottawa, died at 10:58 a.m. Thursday, March 5, 2026, at Taylor Place in Findlay. She was born April 14, 1941, in Continental to the late Paul and Mabel (Bauer) Marriott. Ruth Ann was first married to Harold “Harry” Brinkman, with whom she had two sons, Joel and Jon-Paul. Together they both taught in the Ottawa-Glandorf school system for many years. Harold passed away in October 2015. She later married Harry E. Stechschulte on July 10, 1993, and he preceded her in death on September 19, 2004.
Survivors include her two sons, Jon Paul (Laura) Brinkman of Thousand Oaks, California, and Joel (Marmie) Brinkman of Moorpark, California; three granddaughters, Alexis Brinkman, Abigail Brinkman, and Charlotte Brinkman; three step-grandchildren, Josh Martin, Tyler Martin, and Cody Martin; and her partner, Bruce Spencer of Ottawa.
She was also preceded in death by a son and daughter-in-law, Jeffrey (Michele) Brinkman.
Ruth Ann had a lifelong spirit of service and community. In the 1990s, during her spare time when she was not teaching or playing tennis, she volunteered alongside her children with Meals on Wheels, something she deeply enjoyed sharing with her family. After retiring, she continued giving back at St. Rita’s, where she worked in reception and guest services, always welcoming people with kindness and a friendly smile.
She loved following and attending Ottawa-Glandorf High School sporting events and was a devoted fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes. Baseball season was especially exciting for her as she cheered on Ohio teams, including the Cincinnati Reds and the Cleveland Indians.
Family was at the center of Ruth Ann’s life. She proudly taught all three of her boys how to play competitive tennis at an early age, sharing with them her love for the sport and the joy of staying active. In 1984 she became the Putnam County woman’s singles champion and went on to win many other tournaments and awards in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles—sometimes partnering with her son Joel. She continued to play tennis with her kids into her 80s. Throughout her life she also enjoyed golf, swimming, biking, and traveling. Her adventures took her across the United States and to destinations throughout South America and Europe.
Ruth Ann taught for 33 years at Glandorf Elementary. In 1974 she served as the head coach for the girls Ottawa Glandorf high school basketball team. During retirement she remained closely connected with many of her fellow teachers through the Red Hatters Club, where they shared laughter, friendship, and many memorable adventures.
She especially treasured her time in California, where she often traveled for extended visits with her sons and three granddaughters. Those moments with family brought her immense happiness and were among the times she cherished most.
Funeral mass will begin at 10:30 a.m., Monday, March 16, 2026, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Glandorf with Fr. Matt Keller officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 2 to 6 p.m., Sunday and one hour prior to the mass Monday at LOVE FUNERAL HOME, Ottawa.
Memorial donations may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.
Condolences may be expressed at www.loveheitmeyer.com
