Ruth Ann Arndt, age 78 of Salem, passed away on Tuesday, October 24, 2023 at Aperion Care in St. Elmo. Ruth was born on December 16, 1944 in Mendota, IL the daughter of Melvin and Hattie L. (Stanford) Tinkler. She married James Ashworth in 1961 and he preceded her in death in March 1984. She married Robert “Mick” Arndt in 1987 and he preceded her in death on May 31, 2010. Ruth will be remembered for her sense of humor, her love of coffee, and her overall joy of life. She was friendly and outgoing and brought a light to any room she walked into. Survivors include two children, Jimmy Ashworth and wife Ruth of Oak Ridge, TN, and Tracy Kuhl and husband Rick of Troy, MI; 12 grandchildren; multiple great-grandchildren; and sisters, Treva McDowell and Suzanne Pollard. She was also preceded in death by her daughter, Tammy, parents, and siblings. Ruth was a long-time member of the Salem Lutheran Church. She retired from North American Lighting. A graveside service for Ruth A. Arndt will be held at 1:00 pm on Friday, October 27, 2023 at Paradise Cemetery in Salem with Pastor Mike Feldmann officiating. Crouse Funeral Home in Salem is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be left at www.CrouseFH.com