Ruth Helgemo

Ruth Helgemo was born in Tracy, MN, on May 28, 1922, to Rollo and Martha Brown. Ruth graduated from Tracy High School where she was active in band and enjoyed horseback riding, sewing, ice-skating and being with friends. After graduation, Ruth worked at Reed Johnson’s Grocery Store where she met Chester Helgemo. They were married in 1942 in Camp Polk, LA, where Chet was stationed before going overseas. They were blessed with three sons, Alan, Gary and Lonnie. The family fished, camped, built a new home and participated in Boy Scouts and sports. After Chet died in 1959, Ruth raised her three young sons, learned how to drive and started a 25-year career at Tracy Elementary School, retiring in 1985. She remained active throughout her life with gardening, card club, golfing, stamp and cruet collecting. She was a member of the Tracy Lutheran Church, American Legion and VFW. Ruth enjoyed many years of companionship with her friend, Jim “Dutch” Tofting. They enjoyed traveling, casino visits and fishing at their northern Minnesota lake place. The family is greatly appreciative of the friendship of Linda Shaw who helped Ruth transition through the many phases of aging. Ruth spent her final nine years at O’Brien Court and Prairie View Senior Living where she was well cared for and enjoyed the activities and sweet treats. She also received excellent care from Compassionate Care Hospice, Shetek Home Care Services, Sanford Tracy Medical Center and Tracy Lutheran Church. Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters and her husband, Chet. She is survived by her three sons: Alan (Janet) from Golden Valley, MN, Lonnie (Judy) from New Brighton, MN, and Gary (Rise) from Cicero, IN, six grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Memorials preferred to Tracy Lutheran Church. Saturday, November 28, 2015 11:00 AM