Ruth Haroldson

RUTH NELL HAROLDSON, 92 ROCKFORD - Ruth Nell Haroldson, 92, of Rockford died Saturday, July 16, 2011, at her home. Born Feb. 12, 1919, in Algoma, Wis., to Edward and Elsie (Uecker) Nell. She attended schools in Algoma. After high school she attended and graduated from Bellin Memorial School of Nursing in Green Bay, Wis. After receiving her degree as a registered nurse, Ruth worked as a surgical nurse in Green Bay, and then in the Rockford area until her retirement. She married Eugene (Gene) Haroldson on July 28, 1945, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Algoma; he died in 2000. She and her husband traveled extensively in their later years. Ruth was a member of Zion Lutheran Church where she taught Sunday school for many years and belonged to a church circle. After her husband's death, Ruth spent many hours volunteering with the Northern Illinois Hospice and Grief Center where she was involved with direct care, served on committees, and worked in the office. The time she spent there was mentally, physically and socially rewarding. Throughout her life Ruth truly enjoyed her family and special friends. She will be greatly missed and always loved for her positive attitude and example. Survived by daughters, Susan Brian of Harvard, Holly (Gregory) Orlowski of Milwaukee and Nancy Stevens of Bloomington; grandchildren, Colleen (Tim) Lakis, Tim Brian, Paul (Andrea) Orlowski, Jeffrey (Erin) Orlowski, Matthew (Jennie) Orlowski and Emily Stevens; eight great-grandchildren; sister, Elda Schley; and sister-in-law, Marilyn (Vincent) Monti. Predeceased by her parents; husband of 56 years Gene; brother, Edgar; son-in-law, John Stevens; and infant grandson, Robert Brian. Service at 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 20, at Olson Funeral & Cremation Services Ltd., Fred C. Olson Chapel, 1001 Second Ave., with visitation from 10 to 10:45 a.m.; the Rev. Gerald Peterson will officiate. Burial in Sunset Memorial Gardens. The family prefers memorials to Northern Illinois Hospice and Grief Center, 4215 Newburg Road, Rockford, IL 61108 or Zion Lutheran Radio Ministry, 925 Fifth Ave., Rockford, IL 61104. To send a condolence visit olsonfh.com.