Ruth Tangen

Ruth Marion (Borud) Tangen, of Starbuck, Minnesota, died peacefully, with her family by her side, at Minnewaska Lutheran Nursing Home in Starbuck, Minnesota on Monday, June 8, 2009, at the age of 85 years old.

Ruth was born April 28, 1924, to Oscar and Emma (Peterson) Borud in Fosston, Minnesota. She grew up in Fosston where she received her education. Ruth was confirmed in the Norwegian Language in the Lutheran faith. She was a current member of Zion Lutheran Church in Twin Valley, Minnesota and a past member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Winger, Minnesota where she was involved in many activities. After high school she worked several years in Minneapolis for Sears and Roebuck. She returned to Fosston and worked as a receptionist for the hospital. She meet and married her beloved husband of 60 years, Francis Raymond Tangen, on April 30 ^th , 1949. After their marriage at Hope Lutheran Church in Fosston, MN, they lived in several communities including Fosston, McIntosh, Winger, Twin Valley and retired to Starbuck, MN. Ruth worked as a bookkeeper at the Winger Coop, nurse’s aide, and a convenience store/café owner operator. She was always involved with people and brought a lot of joy, blessings and encouragement to others whenever she went.

She was an American Legion Auxiliary member and was active in the McDowell women’s choir. Each of Ruth’s children, their spouses, grandchildren and great-grandchild had a special place in her heart; she enjoyed spending time with them. She enjoyed all types of music and could play the piano by ear and harmonize with family and the church choir. She and Frances always enjoyed dancing together. Ruth loved making crafts and enjoyed new food experiences. Ruth’s love for her family, friends, relatives and community made a treasure to all.

Ruth is survived by her husband: Francis Tangen of Starbuck; four children Cynthia Johnson of Gully, Minnesota. Ray Tangen and his wife, Marilyn, of Rock Springs, Wyoming. Beverly Helgaas, and her husband, Craig, of Glenwood, Minnesota. and Dale Tangen of Glenwood, Minnesota. Five grandchildren Aleta Helgaas of Bismarck, ND. Nicholas Helgaas of San Dieago, CA. Krista and RaeLynn Tangen of Rock Springs, WY and Sara (Helgaas) Maasjo and her husband Grant of Villard, MN. Three step-grandchildren Joesph Morgan and his wife Pam of Huntington Beach, CA. Noel Morgan and his wife Kathy of Lucus, TX. David Morgan and his wife Sherry of Conroe, TX. One great-grandchildren, Gabe Maasjo. Seven step-great-grandchildren Megan and Madison Morgan. Ariel and Frank Morgan. Zoe and Sade Cynthia Morgan and many loving cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her dear sister Edith (Harlowe) Holm and Son-in-law Darrell Johnson.

May God bless the memory of Ruth Tangen.