Ruth A. Reichmann

SELKIRK - Ruth Anita Sengelaub Reichmann, 92, of Selkirk, NY, passed away suddenly on Monday, August 31, 2026, at her apartment at Peregrine Shaker. Born and raised on the North Sea in Cuxhaven, Germany, Ruth was the daughter of Johanna (Jansen) Sengelaub and Herbert Sengelaub. As a child, she survived the devastation and starvation of World War II. In her early twenties, Ruth immigrated to the United States, first settling in Pennsylvania before moving to Manhattan in 1956.

Ruth was a gifted artist, designer, and tailor, always impeccably chic. She was mathematically sharp, athletic, creative, and fiercely independent. She lived life on her own terms and was a devoted protector of her family, showering those she loved with endless generosity. Her father called her “Lebenslustig” — she loved life.

Ruth met Egon at the Lorelei on 86th Street in Manhattan, and they were married in 1958. Ruth later followed Egon to Germany, where he served with the U.S. Army, before they returned to New York to raise their growing family.

Together, Ruth and Egon served for many years with the Bethlehem Volunteer Ambulance and enjoyed their involvement with the German American Club. Ruth wholeheartedly supported her children in their pursuits, from speed skating and dance to music. She was an exceptional hostess who made everyone feel like family—whether welcoming relatives from Europe, hosting Saturday poker nights with dear friends, or preparing fabulous dinners and special tortes for family and friends through the Women's International Club. She also found joy in sewing and knitting beautiful clothing for those she loved.

Ruth is survived by her children Petra (Brian), Moni (John), and Claus (Kim); grandchildren Kira Russom (Rob), Erin Clary (Joe), Matt Clary (Laura), Sara Dittman (Andy), Chase Reichmann (Sarah), Ashley Yunker (Aaron), Drew Reichmann, and Quinten Reichmann (Arial); great-grandchildren Robby, Michaela, Jack, Sam, Tristan, Ava, Ethan, Layla, and Hansel; sisters Gerdi Bittner Conrad and Giesela Gebauer; and her beloved cat, Rina. Ruth was predeceased by her husband, Egon.

As Mom taught us: “Hab Sonne im Herzen” — hold sunshine in your heart.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Ruth’s memory may be made to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society.

Funeral services will he held in the Hans Funeral Home, 1088 Western Ave., Albany on Thursday at 11:00 a.m. Relatives and friends are invited, and may call at the funeral home prior to the service from 9-11 a.m. Interment will follow the service in Jerusalem Cemetery, Feura Bush. To leave a condolence for the family, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com.