Ruth M. Schletty

Ruth Marie Schletty passed away surrounded by family, on August 6, 2023, after a short illness.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Howard; parents, Alice and Henry Freeman; brother, John; sister, Myrna; and her son, Gerald.  She is survived by her daughter, Mary (Wayne) Jastremski; grandchildren, Katie, Tom, and Connie, and great grandchildren, August, Charlie, and Ivy.  

Ruth was a deeply compassionate woman who served her community.  She was an active member of St. John the Baptist Church in Hugo, and volunteered regularly in myriad ways.  She worked tirelessly and quietly to care for people in need and instilled in her children and grandchildren a sense of care for their community. She was a woman of deep faith who lived a life of service to others. 

Ruth was proud of growing up in St. Paul, always speaking fondly of her childhood there, and considering herself a city girl despite living on a farm for 75 years.  She moved to Hugo, MN at the age of 19, where she lived for the rest of her life.  She had a tremendous love of animals and always had a house full of pets, including a few who invited themselves to be members of the household despite her better judgment.

She was also the life of the party, a warm and lovely conversationalist always surrounded by friends.  Music was an integral part of her life, beginning with violin lessons in her youth and later singing in church and community choirs until the end of her life.  In the last few years, she sang with the Silver Harmonies, performing for others in need to share the joy of music.  She never stopped learning, taking dance lessons, traveling, and reading every book she could get her hands on. She loved gardening and nature, was an avid camper, and would agree to play any kind of board game or card game until well past everyone’s bedtime.

Over the course of 94 years, Ruth saw huge changes in the world - in technology, in her community, and in her family.  Through it all, she created a sense of love and stability for her family.  She is a beautiful example of a life well-lived and will be very deeply missed by her family and friends. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m., Friday, August 18, 2023 at St. John’s Site of The Church of St. Genevieve, 14383 Forest Blvd. North, Hugo.  The family will greet friends for one hour prior to mass at the church.  Interment at St. John the Baptist Cemetery, Hugo, Minnesota.