Ruth Cook of Farmington passed away peacefully on May 29, 2016 surrounded by her loving family.
Ruth was born in New Richland, MN on August 8, 1922, the youngest of eight children of Andrew F. and Hulda Sponberg. Christian values were instilled in her by her family and education at Visitation Lutheran Church. Farm life developed in her a strong work ethic and service to others.
Ruth graduated from Gustavus Adolphus College in 1944 and began her teaching career in Truman, MN. In 1946 she met Earl L. Cook, a Farmington veterinarian. They were married in 1947 and were inseparable during 57 years of marriage. Ruth resumed her teaching at Farmington High School in 1961 where she impacted the lives of countless students in her English and Speech classes over the next 25 years.
Ruth was an active member of Farmington Lutheran Church, P.E.O. and served her community faithfully. She enjoyed her bridge club, playing cribbage, and in her younger years she was an avid bowler. Ruth was an enthusiastic supporter of Farmington High School athletics and activities. She and Doc were passionate Minnesota Gopher and Vikings football fans. In retirement she enjoyed spending the winters in Fountain Hills, AZ; visiting children and grandchildren and traveling to see their many friends.
Ruth is preceded in death by her husband, Earl “Doc”; brothers, Herman Arrid, Herbert, Harold, and Raymond; sisters, Linea Peterson, and Evelyn Young. She is survived by her children Tom (Debbie) of Greenfield, MN, Larry (Mary) of Fairfax, VA, Mary Lou (Bill Ferrell of Excelsior, MN; grandchildren, Stacy (Jeff), Shean (Leann) Michael, Catherine (Nick), Karsten (John), Molly (Brandon), Steven (Catherine), Lindsay (Hunter), and Emily; thirteen great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters-in-law; and many nieces and nephews.
The family is grateful for the compassionate care Ruth received at Presbyterian Homes, Lake Minnetonka Shores, in Spring Park, MN. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, June 3 at Farmington Lutheran Church, 20600 Akin Rd., Farmington, MN. Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Thursday at White Funeral Home, 901 3rd Street, Farmington, MN. Interment will follow at St. Michaels Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Farmington Lutheran Church or to a scholarship to be established in Ruth’s memory at FHS.