Ruth Elaine Garvin Profile Photo
1927 Ruth E. Garvin 2023

Ruth Elaine Garvin

August 4, 1927 — July 31, 2023

Alexandria

Ruth Elaine Garvin, a beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully at her home at Nelson Gables on July 31, 2023. She was born on August 4, 1927, in Glenwood, Minnesota to Glenn and Esther Scott. Ruth was known for her kind heart and unwavering dedication to her family and community.

Ruth completed the 10th grade at Villard Public School before embarking on a remarkable journey as a loving wife and mother. On September 20, 1943, she married the love of her life, Orville Garvin, at the Douglas County Courthouse. Together they raised five children - Connie, Audrey, Betty, Donna, and Scott. Ruth's devotion to her family knew no bounds, and she found joy in every moment spent with them.

In addition to her role as a dedicated mother and wife, Ruth took an active part in her community. She was a proud member of the Douglas County Republicans and represented them as a delegate at numerous conventions. Ruth's commitment to public service extended further as she served as secretary for Orange Township. Her dedication to her community earned her respect and admiration from all who knew her.

Throughout her life, Ruth enjoyed various hobbies and activities that filled her days with happiness. She had a talent for card games.  Dancing brought joy to Ruth's heart, and in quieter moments, she found solace in reading books. Additionally, Ruth channeled her creativity into knitting and sewing beautiful creations for her loved ones.

Ruth was proud of the numerous organizations she was involved with over the years. She was an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary in Villard, the Villard Birthday Club, Forada Seniors, and the Alexandria Senior Center. 

Ruth will be forever cherished in the hearts of her loved ones. She is survived by her five children - Connie (Roy) Medenwaldt, Audrey Cain, Betty (Mark) Lukes, Donna Wohlenhaus, and Scott Garvin. Her memory will also be lovingly remembered by her grandchildren - Matthew (Liz) Medenwaldt, Michelle (Chad) Rhen, Dianna (Chris) Roers, Deanna (Fred) Ziesman, Jamie Cain, Dennis Lukes, Denise Lukes, Wendy (Ray) Taggert, and Christian Garvin. Ruth's great-grandchildren - Kate Medenwaldt, Isak Rhen, Nina Rhen, Devin Roers, Sadie Roers, Emma Roers, Allen Ziesman, Amanda Ziesman, Emerson Lukes, Harmony Taggert, and Kyron Wohlenhaus - were a source of tremendous joy in her life.

In addition to her loving family members mentioned above, she is survived by her sister Vida Helms and sister-in-law Vivian Scott.

Ruth was preceded in death by her husband Orville Garvin, her granddaughter Brandy Wohlenhaus, her parents Glenn and Esther Scott as well as her sister Ruby Woida and brother Doug Scott.

A visitation service to honor Ruth's life will be held on August 7th at New Life Christian Church in Alexandria. The visitation will begin at 10:00 AM and conclude at 11:00 AM. A memorial service will follow the visitation at 11:00 AM, also to be held at New Life Christian Church.  

Inurnment will be at the Nelson Cemetery.

Ruth Elaine Garvin was a remarkable woman who touched the lives of all who knew her. Her kind and nurturing spirit will forever be remembered, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations. She will be greatly missed but never forgotten.

Please join us in celebrating the life of Ruth Elaine Garvin. May her soul rest in eternal peace.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Ruth Elaine Garvin, please visit our flower store.

Service Schedule

Past Services

Visitation

Monday, August 7, 2023

10:00 - 11:00 am (Central time)

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Memorial Service

Monday, August 7, 2023

11:00am - 12:00 pm (Central time)

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