Obituaries

Ruth Luise Fischer Walker, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, at the age of 92 at Heron Cove 2 in Gloucester, VA. Born on January 22, 1933, in Insterburg, East Prussia, Ruth lived a life marked by kindness, resilience, and a deep commitment to her family, church, and community. Displaced by World War II, Ruth and her mother moved multiple times before arriving in their new home of West Berlin. It was while living there that she was asked by a young USAF airman, who was judging a talent show, if she would help him by translating the program from German into English. Not only did she translate, but she became that airman’s wife of 68 years.
Ruth loved her family more than anything, placing their happiness and well-being at the very heart of her life. Known to all as “Oma”, the German word for grandmother, she embraced this title with pride and warmth, embodying the role for her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and friends alike. Throughout her remarkable 92 years, she touched the lives of all who knew her with her warmth, generosity, and unwavering spirit. She was known for her gentle smile, her ability to lend a listening ear, and her dedication to helping others in times of need. Ruth’s legacy is one of compassion and love, qualities that she instilled in her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who were fortunate enough to call her a friend.
Ruth was a woman of many talents and interests. She especially enjoyed knitting and crocheting, creating beautiful handmade gifts that will be treasured for generations. She also loved spending time in her garden, sharing stories around the dinner table, and volunteering at local organizations. Her wisdom and wit brought comfort and laughter to those around her, and her presence will be deeply missed by her family and friends.
After moving from her home of 55 years in the Shore Park area of Denbigh, Ruth spent two years at Warwick Forest in the independent living section. During her time there, she was very active in many social events and made numerous friends among both the residents and the staff. She enjoyed her time at Warwick Forest immensely, cherishing the connections and the vibrant community she found there.
She was preceded in death by her husband, William W. “Bill” Walker; parents, Hans and Ellen Fischer; stepfather, Richard Derreth; and adopted father, Bodo Maerker.
Ruth is survived by three children, Edward R. Walker (Sharon), Mark W. Walker (Susan), and Debra W. Costa (Grant); her chosen son, LTC (Ret) Boris G. Robinson; six grandchildren, Catharine W. Rockefeller (Nick, dec), A. Kyle Walker (Shannon), Graham L. Costa (Hayley), W. Harley Walker (Ashley), Logan M. Walker, and Casey G. Costa (Anna); great-grandchildren, Cooper, Caden, Fischer, Blake Ruth, Theo, Hayes, and Lois Ruth.
Her loving family will continue to honor her memory by living out the values she held dear. Ruth’s life was a testament to the power of kindness, and her spirit will remain alive in the hearts of those she leaves behind.
A memorial service celebrating her life will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 12:30 p.m. at Chestnut Memorial United Methodist Church, 1024 Harpersville Rd, Newport News, VA 23601.
The family expresses special thanks to the skilled and compassionate staff of Heron Cove 2 in Gloucester, who assured Ruth’s comfort in her final days.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Chestnut Memorial United Methodist Church in Ruth’s memory.