Ruby Maxine VanHouten Petrus, “Mimi”, 90, of Stuttgart, whose loving, spunky spirit never stopped bringing joy to others, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, November 25, 2025. She was born on September 21, 1935. She was preceded in death by her husband, Leonard, of 43 years and joined him in paradise 26 years later on their wedding anniversary. She also follows in passing her parents, Commie and Viola VanHouten; brothers LeRoy, John, T.L. (Skinny), B.R., Ellis; sisters Gladys Vick, Charolette (Lippy)Ivy, and Bobbie Petty.
Her legacy continues through her children, Lenny Petrus, Micki (Keith) Konecny, Jarrod (Sonya) Petrus; her grandchildren Cara and Jordan Petrus, Kelsi (Jeremy) Bednar, Nick (Ashley) Konecny, Charlsi Konecny (fiancé, Cameron Gilmore), Haley Cross and Damon Gentry; her great-grandchildren Oden Cross, Sloan and Ellie Konecny, and Brynn Bednar.
She is survived by a brother, Kenneth (Bumpin) VanHouten along with many beloved nieces and nephews.
Mimi’s hardworking spirit, joyful disposition, and love of sharing laughter left a lasting impact on all who knew her. She spent her life serving in many capacities; homemaker, bookkeeper, retail manager, factory worker, dance teacher assistant, caregiver, and RSVP volunteer. Her greatest loves were her children and grandchildren. She was their number one fan, their biggest supporter, and their personal chauffeur to wherever life carried them.
Visitation will be Friday, November 28, 2025 beginning at 5:00PM at Westbrook Funeral Home Chapel in Hazen, Rosary will follow beginning at 6:00PM.
Funeral Mass will be Saturday, November 29, 2025 beginning at 10:00AM at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Stuttgart, with a visitation prior to the Mass beginning at 9:00AM.
Interment with be in the Hazen Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Stuttgart Senior Citizen Center and the Stuttgart Animal Shelter, honoring her love for her community and her pups.
Arrangements are entrusted with Westbrook Funeral Home of Hazen, Arkansas.