Ruth Brown

Ruth Evelyn Spanyers, daughter of John and Anna (Larson) Spanyers, was born February 23, 1920 in Ortonville, Minnesota, where she grew up and attended and graduated from Ortonville High School. She continued her education at Nursing School. On June 8, 1939, she was united in marriage to Leslie W. Brown. The couple remained in Ortonville until 1945, when they moved to Starbuck. Together they owned and operated Brown’s V Store until 1960, when Ruth began working at the hospital in the administration department. Following their retirement, they continued to live in Starbuck. Leslie died on December 21, 1984. Ruth later moved into the Minnewaska Lutheran Home in Starbuck.

Ruth was a member of Fron Lutheran Church in Starbuck, where she was active in the ladies groups and participated in various activities. She was very involved with the Depot Society, Ladies Auxiliary and Study Club. Ruth loved music and singing, taking walks and traveling, especially with Les and their friends. She especially enjoyed the time she spent with family and friends.

Ruth died on Tuesday, October 13, 2009 at the Glacial Ridge Hospital in Glenwood, Minnesota, having lived to reach the age of 89 years.

She is survived by one son: Charles (Kathryn) Brown of Frisco, TX and his son: Kurt (Jennifer) Brown and their children Julia and Kyle; step-daughter: Jean (James) Sargent of Roseville, their children and grandchildren; one sister: Katherine Anne Barrass of San Rafael, CA and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband; one grandson: Kipp Brown; her parents; one sister: Clara Holmquist and two brothers: John and Harvey Spanyers.

Pallbearers for the service are all of Ruth’s Family. Shari Opdahl will serve as organist for the service with Vic Vatthauer serving as soloist. Starbuck Funeral Home in Starbuck is in charge of the arrangements.