It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ruth Marie Pederson, 87, on November 1, 2024, in Green Bay, WI. Ruth was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, whose dedication to her family and community touched many lives.

Ruth was born on July 16, 1937, in Eau Claire, WI, to August and Marion (Hollen) Schlegel. She grew up alongside her brothers, Alton and Roger, and held dear the memories and values instilled by her parents. In 1961, Ruth married the love of her life, George Pederson. Together, they shared a beautiful 55-year marriage, raising their family in Normal, IL, before moving to Green Bay in 2016. As a devoted mother, Ruth was a role model in faith, passing on those values to her children and grandchildren, who were her greatest joy.

Upon graduating from Stout State College, with a degree in Home Economics, she pursued her passion for education. She began her career teaching at Eau Claire Memorial High School, where her compassion and dedication to nurturing young minds shone brightly. Ruth continued to make a difference, teaching at Kiddie Korner Nursery School. Later, she shared her skills as a seamstress at Hodges Bridal Shop in Normal, IL.

In addition to her skills in sewing, she also had a talent and love for baking. Alongside her husband, Ruth enjoyed traveling and spending summers in Cumberland on Beaver Dam Lake. She was a long-standing member of Our Savior Lutheran Church and was dedication to her church community where she found fellowship and purpose.

Ruth leaves behind her devoted children, John (Roxanne) Pederson of Rochester, MN; Ann (Todd) Nelson of Carrollton, TX; and Mary (Steven) Novotny of Green Bay, WI. Her legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren: Katherine Pederson, Michael (Brittany) Pederson, Ross Nelson, Bryan Nelson, Courtney (Jacob) Hessler, Janelle Novotny, and five great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her beloved brother Roger Schlegel, and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her husband, George, parents, and brother, Alton.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Ruth’s life at a visitation on Friday, November 8, 2024, from 5:00 - 7:30 PM at Skinner Funeral Home, Cumberland, WI. There will also be a visitation at 10:00 AM on Saturday, November 9, 2024, with a service following at 11:00 AM at First Lutheran Church in Cumberland, WI, with Rev. Timothy Schmidt officiating. Following the service, Ruth will be laid to rest at Lakeside Cemetery in Cumberland, WI. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Lutheran Church, Cumberland, WI, in Ruth’s honor.

Last Update: Nov 05, 2024 12:57 pm CST