Ruth Ann Nelson

Ruth Nelson, 87, of Aitkin, MN, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2026, at Rivers Edge Assisted Living.

Born on March 21,1939 in Duluth, MN to Vincent and Eleanor Tarnowski.  She graduated from Columbia Heights High School and went to work in many fields but ended up working in accounting for a Trucking Company for over 30 years.

Ruth was a devoted mother with a warm spirit who loved playing cards, bingo, volunteering, dancing, fishing, going to auctions and helping others. She brought joy to those around her with her generously big heart.

Ruth had a heart full of compassion. For 18 years, she volunteered and helped run the local food shelf, Community Food Shelf at First Lutheran. She welcomed people who needed to come into the Food Shelf.  She believed no one should ever go hungry. Her hard work and gentle care brought comfort to many people in our community.

Ruth served her church family for 28 years with a joyful heart. Whether she was serving a meal or organizing the Fall Festival, or being on church council, she gave her time and love freely. Her gentle spirit and warm smile brought comfort to many people in need.

Ruth served on the Nordland Township board for 16 years before retiring last year as Chairperson.  She did an excellent job of serving her Township.

Ruth is survived by her children; son Donny, daughters Deb (Don), Kris (Dave), stepchildren, Derrick (Margaret), Jac (Barb) and many generations of grandchildren, great grandchildren great-great grandchildren and sisters Dorothy and Lora (Dick).

She was preceded in death by her husband’s, Doug, Carl, and Donald, parents - Vincent & Eleanor Tarnowski, siblings - Roger, Don, Jerie, Jan, and Kenneth, step grandson – Jeremy.

Thank you to Rivers Edge Assisted Living staff for the support, love, and friendship shared with our mother. Thank you also to Moments Hospice for the compassionate care given to our mother.

A graveside service to celebrate Ruth’s life will be held November 7th at 11:30 AM at Bethlehem Lutheran Church Cemetery (36696 320th Street, Aitkin, MN).  A meal and time to share memories will follow immediately after the graveside service in the Bethlehem Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall.  To leave a message of condolence go to www.srtfuneral.com  Arrangements with Sorensen-Root-Thompson Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Aitkin.

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