Melvin I. Ruth, Jr.

Melvin Ivan Ruth, Jr. of Kenner, Louisiana passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 14th, 2019 at the Ochsner Medical Center in Kenner. Born September 14, 1945 to Melvin & Antonia Ruth, he lived most of his life in New Orleans and Kenner. He was known as “Mel” to his family, friends and loved ones. Melvin was a parishioner at St. Clement of Rome Catholic Church in Metairie.
He served honorably in the US Navy during the Vietnam War.
Before retirement, Melvin was a pesticide specialist for many years. He had many passions and hobbies, the greatest being his love of animals. He raised tortoises and took great care to see them grow and thrive. Melvin prided himself on his knowledge of computers and technology, always happy to share information and help others learn. He was also an avid shooter, enjoying frequent trips to the range with friends for target practice. For many years, Mel led local singles events and formed many friendships over dinners, trips, cruises and events. He was an active member of The Pink House, a vibrant senior center in Jefferson Parish. Melvin was well liked and respected by his peers and friends. He will be missed greatly in many different circles. Whether family or friend, Melvin loved to help others. He took joy in sharing knowledge, giving gifts and offering a helping hand. Melvin is survived by his beautiful sister, Carol Ann (Ruth) Chouest. They shared a close bond for a lifetime, he was lovingly known as “Brother” to her and will be greatly missed. Also surviving is his brother-in-law, Jeff Chouest Jr.; niece and God-daughter, Christen Ruth Chouest-Sistrunk (husband TJ); niece Ashley Ann (Chouest) Giles (husband Jason); nephew Jeff Chouest III (wife Elise); nephew Julien Chouest (Carrie); great-nephew Joseph “Joey” Giles; great-nieces Madison Chouest Hibbs, Terri Sistrunk, Macie Sistrunk, Cali Chouest; dear friends Julie Balderas, Dwight Bradbury and Troy Day and finally his pup, Pepper. Preceding him in death was his father, Melvin Ivan Ruth, Sr.; his beloved mother, Antonia Inez (Silvio) Ruth; paternal grandparents John William Ruth & Edna Madeleine (Schneider) Ruth; maternal grandparents Charles Silvio & Frances (Piazza) Silvio and numerous aunts and uncles. Relatives and family friends are invited to a Celebration of Life on Friday, July 19, 2019 at Saint Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church in Algiers, New Orleans, Louisiana. Visitation will be from 9am-11am for family and friends with a Funeral Mass at 11am. Interment will follow at Greenwood Cemetery on Canal Street in New Orleans. MOTHE FUNERAL HOME is in charge of arrangements. The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses for the care they provided in Melvin’s final days. They are especially thankful for the earthly angels that helped and prayed with him: the aforementioned dear friends Julie, Dwight & Troy and family members Julien, Christen, TJ & Elizabeth. God Bless you all. Family and friends may offer condolences at mothefunerals.com.