Helen Ruhl

On October 28, 2025, Helen Irene (Hoke) Ruhl, of Washington, PA, age 89, passed away peacefully at the Donnell House in Washington, PA, surrounded by family. Born October 19, 1935, in Rocherty, PA, she lived a life filled with faith, family, laughter, love, and generosity.

Helen had a quick wit, a warm smile, and a knack for making others feel welcome. She loved having her home full of family when hosting holidays and was known for her elaborate Easter Egg Hunts. She was a knowledgeable sports enthusiast with an especially passionate love for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Sundays were cherished—not only for Mass, but also for football.

In her younger years, Helen played softball with a traveling team in Lebanon, PA, before working as a civilian employee with the Air Force at Indiantown Gap. She later poured her generous spirit into her community—serving as a Girl Scout leader, coaching her daughters’ softball teams, and always stepping up when her time and talents could make a difference.

Her faith was her foundation. A devout Catholic, Helen was a proud Christian Mother and Eucharistic Minister at St. Hilary Church in Washington, PA. Her devotion to her church and her countless acts of community service reflected the values she carried throughout her life.

Helen is survived by her husband of 66 years, Simon W. Ruhl, her daughters Kathy Ruhl, of Laguna Niguel, CA, Karen Ruhl-Grimes (Jon), of Sewickley, PA, and Amy Higgins (William) of Washington, PA. She was the cherished Nana of Brooke West (John Mark Erdelyan) and Dylan West, Emma and Sara Ruhl, Maddie (Andrew) Kearney, Mason and Sydney Grimes, and Luke and Abby Higgins.

Helen was preceded in death by her daughter, Linda S. Ruhl, parents Joseph W. Hoke, Sr., and Catherine (Spangler) Hoke, siblings, Harry Light, Joan Hoke, Elizabeth Blouch, Catherine Wright, Mary Emma Miller, Joseph Hoke, Jr., and Barbara Resh. Brother Robert Hoke survives.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Concordia Hospice of Washington (Donnell House), 10 Leet Street, Washington, PA 15301, in gratitude for the loving care they provided Helen in her final days.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Monday, October 6, from 6PM-8PM at William G. Neal Funeral Home, 925 Allison Avenue, Washington.   Burial private 

In her honor, laugh a little louder, serve others with generosity, and cheer a little harder for every Steelers’ win.