Obituary of Ruth Ann Manne

Ruth Ann Manne Walworth: Surrounded by her family on Wednesday, April 12, 2023 at the age of 54 after a short battle with cancer. Predeceased by her parents, Mort and Phyllis Rosenberg. She is survived by her loving husband of 12 years, Keith Manne; sons, John and George Manne; sisters, Cynthia Close and Rita (Nato) Arredondo; father and mother-in-law, John and Helen Manne; brother-in-law, Karl (Jennifer) Manne; sisters-in-law, Kim Manne, Julia Manne, and Valerie (Mitch) Miller; many nieces, nephews, as well as forever friends from across the country. Throughout her life, Ruth was devoted to animals and to her career as a zoological educator, with a focus on conservation of wildlife and exotics. She introduced the next generation to truly caring about animals as more than simply a curiosity in a box, but as a critical part of nature. She inspired several generations' entire careers in animal care and conservation by encouraging interaction with the animals and breaking down "dangerous animal" stereotypes into important and beautiful parts of the ecosystem. With a fierce desire to immerse the public in animal education, she conceived and implemented the Seneca Park Zoo's "ZOT Zone" and "Zoo Teen" programs, and prior to that, directed all the education programs for children at the Cincinnati Zoo. Over the years, Ruth continued to contribute her considerable talent to other prominent zoological and wildlife conservation organizations. Ruth's dedication even led her to travel nationally and internationally, and although she collaborated with a long list of famous animal conservationists, she never drew attention to herself as more than local children's approachable "Roo at the Zoo." From the time she was a little girl until just recently, Ruth also rescued many cats and dogs and brought them into her home as family members. With an endless amount of love to give, Ruth took a break from a full-time career so that she and Keith could serve as foster parents to a dozen children, providing them immediate refuge and inspiring them for their futures. They would soon excitedly adopt two brothers, John and George as forever family. Ruth was active in the local school PTA, extending her undimmable light and unabashed cheering equally to the entire town's children as well as their competitors during team sporting events. Regardless of whatever challenges Ruth was facing, she would drop everything for a child or animal in need, smiling and asserting "there's always room for one more, and always something that can be done to help." A private Celebration of Life will be held for family and close friends. Ruth's family extends its sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to the Go Fund Me page that John created for his mom, and also requests that those wishing to make a memorial gift do so to the wildlife conservation organization or animal shelter/rescue of their choice.