Ruth Norman (Sweet)

Ruth Norman (Sweet) was born in Hayward, Calif., on March 14, 1944, to Josephine and Theodore Lischeid. She had one brother, Paul, who was born in 1948. In 1954, the family moved to North Seattle, Wash., where Ruth grew up and attended local schools through high school.  

After graduation, she attended Seattle Pacific University and went on to complete her nursing studies at the University of Washington. During her studies, Ruth was active in her local church, where she met Jim Norman, who later became her husband. The couple lived in Seattle while Ruth worked at a hospital there.

After Jim's father passed, they moved to Renton, Wash., to live with his mother. While in Renton, they had two daughters – Cheryl and Katherine. Ruth worked at Valley General Hospital and continued her long nursing career there. Ruth and Jim eventually moved to Moses Lake, Wash., following the passing of Jim's mother. Ruth retired from the hospital after forty years of dedicated service.

In Moses Lake, Ruth and Jim enjoyed gardening and fishing in the area's many lakes. They were both active in their church and local charities. Sadly, during this time, Jim developed pancreatic cancer. Around the same period, their oldest daughter Cheryl also developed the same illness and passed away. Losing them both was deeply difficult for Ruth. After Jim's passing, Ruth remained in Moses Lake and continued to be active in her church community.

After some time, Ruth met Allan Sweet at the Senior Center, and they discovered they had much in common. They found comfort and joy in each other's company, sharing a deep faith and a love of service. Ruth and Allan became very involved in the Moses Lake Christian Church and the local Senior Center helping deliver meals to those in need. They were later married in a small ceremony surrounded by friends and family. Ruth and Allan lived across the street from Allan's daughter Laurie. Ruth loved spending time with her and the grandchildren, helping wherever she could. 

By marrying Allan, she acquired seven grandchildren: Michael Harper (Jessica), Aaron Harper (Heather), Issac Harper (Cheyenne), Katie Dodge (Michael), Josiah Harper (Jenna), Ryan Sweet (Brandi), Jacqueline Sweet and 14 great grandchildren which she loved and brought her a tremendous amount of joy.  

Ruth is survived by her brother, Paul Lischeid (Gail), daughter, Katherine Norman, Allan's sons David (Camilla) and Steven.  

Ruth passed away Oct. 24, 2025, from stage four pancreatic cancer. She is now free from pain and at peace. Our heartfelt thanks go to Allan and Laurie for the love and care they gave Ruth in her final days. Though deeply missed, Ruth Sweet is now in a better place — pain-free, at peace and in heaven with the Lord.  

Ruth's memorial service will be held at the Moses Lake Christian Church on Nov. 21 at 2 p.m.