Ruth Elaine Gastrow

Ruth Elaine Gastrow, age 79, passed away Thursday, September 18, 2025 at her residence.

Ruth was born March 8, 1946 and is the daughter of the late Alfonse and Thyra West.

On December 26, 1965, she was united in marriage to William F. “Bill” Gastrow and blessed with their beloved daughter Jordanna on September 23, 1971. Sadly, both Bill and Jordanna preceded her in her death, Bill in 2010 and Jordanna in 2022.

Ruth was a realtor in the Racine area for many years. She was an incredibly talented seamstress and along with her daughter Jordanna created historically accurate and customized costumes for events and performances. She was particularly proud of her involvement with the Waterford Madrigal performers every Christmas.

In addition to her unsurpassed costuming work, her creative endeavors included a passion for miniatures, creation of customized dolls and doll clothing, as well as writing and directing of stage plays along with her daughter Jordanna. Ruth and Jordanna enthusiastically created and donated several original pieces for the Channel 10 auction every year..

Ruth was preceded in death by one brother and one sister. Ruth is survived by her precious fur babies Peanut Butter and Millie as well as several family members and friends. She will be missed.

Visitation will be held at the funeral home Thursday October 2, 2015, 10-11AM with services to follow at 11 am. Interment will be at the Caledonia Memorial Park.

The service will be livestreamed and may be viewed https://www.facebook.com/meredithfuneralhome/

Visitation will be held at the funeral home Thursday, October 2, 2025, 10- 11am with a service to follow at 11 am. Interment will be at Caledonia Memorial Park.