Ruth Elaine Danielson

Ruth Elaine Danielson

In Rock Creek, WI on March 12, 1927 Oleanna and Ole Shager welcomed their 7th child, a girl. The local doctor stayed the night as she had whooping cough, and it was touch and go. But she was destined to touch many lives and prayers were answered. Her oldest sisters were given the honor of naming her and Ruth Elaine was now set on her life path. The path started on the family farm. She often shared stories of growing up in the country with her sisters and brothers and with close friendships that lasted a lifetime. She felt blessed to have lived on a farm during the Great Depression as their garden and livestock provided for the family. Following graduation from high school, she moved to Eau Claire and lived in a boarding house while working at Presto. The boarding house belonged to her future in-laws and she was introduced to their son Reuben. We could say that the rest is history – getting married, settling in Minneapolis, buying a house, choosing a church, forging friendships, time at the cabin, working for LeeAnn Chin, traveling, and all that comes with raising 5 kids in the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s. Bethlehem Lutheran Church would become their home church, also the start of many close friendships and the source of many volunteer activities well into retirement. She was always willing to help in some way if able, you just needed to ask. After Reuben retired they began volunteer work with “Hands and Hearts” and those years were very fulfilling. They also were involved with Sons of Norway Norumbega Lodge and enjoyed activities and learning more about their Norwegian heritage. The icing on the cake? Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren! Even during her final weeks at age 96½, a visit or photos of the most recent additions would bring such joy and gratitude.

She was preceded in death by husband Reuben, siblings Rose, Edna, Doris, Elsie, Einar, Robert. Survived by brother Connie Shager (Donna); children Susan Grove (Scott); Nancy Corley; Bette Danielson (JoAn); Jane Kaley (James); James Danielson. Grandchildren Ben Kaley (Merissa); Zach Kaley (Nancy); Brita Picard (Patrick); Andrea Corley; Jeff Corley (Brenda); Ian Danielson (Bri); Soren Danielson (Emily); Jocelyn Danielson; Mary Grove, Erik Hyrkas (Megan). Great Grandchildren Mika, Mary Jane, Ilsa, Ingrid, Jack, Amelia, Sigrid, Jordan, Kaylah, Mason, Ellora, Maisie, Jamie. She also leaves behind cherished nieces, nephews, and many friends.

She loved her years living at Village Shores and recently at The Pines. Our gratitude also to Accent Care Hospice.