Ruth Elaine Wylie

Ruth Elaine Wylie June 26, 1928 – February 7, 2026

Ruth Elaine Wylie, age 97, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family in Palm Desert, California.

Ruth lived a long, vibrant life defined by independence, a love for family, public service and simple joys. She was an avid bridge player, gardener and food enthusiast, known for her pancakes, a family treat. She was supported by loving family and remained sharp and engaged until her passing.

Born in 1928 in Mount Vernon, Ruth earned her degree from Washington State University, remained an avid “Coug” all her life and never missed a game. From there, she built a distinguished career that reflected both her intellect and determination. After raising her family in Othello WA, she began working as a hospital administrator before entering public service in Skagit County, where she served as an elected County Treasurer for 13 years and later as County Commissioner for 6 years—the first woman to hold that position.

In recognition of her career achievements and life-long support of the university, a WSU agricultural research building, located in West Mount Vernon, bears her name.

Ruth married Jack Wylie, who preceded her in death in 1999. He was a devoted husband and a loving stepfather to her children. Ruth became a licensed pilot, sharing his love for flying. Together they flew across the country, including a trip to a national aviation gathering in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

Above all, Ruth was devoted to her family. She was the loving mother of four children—Ron, Mike, Joni and Nancy—and a proud grandmother and great-grandmother. One of her greatest joys was meeting her twin great-grandsons, Angus and Oki Sohlstrom, in November 2025, a milestone she was determined to reach and celebrate.

Faith and community were also important to Ruth. She was an active member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Mt. Vernon and later, St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church in Palm Desert, where she cherished the welcoming spirit and especially enjoyed the annual Scottish bagpipe service.

She is survived by her daughters, Joni Topper (Joe) and Nancy Kercheval (Hans Sohlstrom), her stepchildren, Dallas Wylie (Darlene) and Kay Wylie McPherson (George), and grandchildren Kent Kercheval, Karly Kercheval, Hannah Kercheval, Dave Kercheval, Katie Kercheval, Jacob Topper, Haley Topper, Annika Sohlstrom, Stefan Sohlstrom, Denise Hanstad, Darla Sicklesteel, Debbie Thulin, Deanne Tronsdal, Peter Robertson, Edie Mazzarella, Martha Robertson, Jeremy Robertson, Duncan Vance, Trevor Vance, Richard Stewart and Jacqui Stewart. She was preceded in death by husband, Jack Wylie, siblings, Neva Reed, Rita Martinsen and Harry (Bud) Parker Jr., sons, Ronald Kercheval and Michael Kercheval, stepchildren, Jon Wylie and Joan Vance, and step-grandson, Morgan Vance.

The funeral service will be held at St Paul’s Episcopal Church, 415 S 18th Street, Mt. Vernon on Saturday, June 27th at 10:30 AM. Reception immediately to follow at The Saltbox Barn on Fir Island, 17995 Fir Island Road, Conway where family and friends are invited to gather and honor her remarkable life.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages others to honor Ruth’s memory by supporting the WSU Northwestern Washington Research & Extension Center in Skagit County.