Ruby Ardelle Norlien

Ruby Norlien, of Columbia Heights, MN, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2025, at the age of 91.
Ruby was born on April 14, 1934, in Kensington, Minnesota. She was baptized, confirmed, and married at West Moe Lutheran Church in Brandon, MN. A 1952 graduate of Brandon High School, Ruby later attended vocational school to become a CNA and Medical Secretary. Earlier in her career, she worked at Bloomington Lake Street Bank and the Immigration Office in St. Paul.
Ruby met the love of her life, Arley, at the Lakeside Ballroom in Glenwood, MN. They were married for 67 wonderful years and together owned and operated a family business, Champion Auto, for several years.
Ruby had many passions and talents. She loved singing, dancing, and playing music-especially the piano, guitar, and harmonica. She was a devoted fan at her grandchildren's sporting and musical events, and treasured time spent with family and friends. Above all, Ruby had a strong faith and a deep love for the Lord. She was a natural caregiver whose family meant everything to her.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Arley; son, Robert; parents, Henry and Anna Thorson; brothers, Jerry and Kermit Thorson; and in-laws, Mary and Stanley Norlien, and Doris and Kenneth Norlien.
Ruby is survived by her children: Mark, Kim (Lori), Nan Cecka (Rick), and daughter-in-law, Janelle; grandchildren: Bryan (Christina), Andy (Jacalyn), Justin Cecka (Crystal), Rachel Anderson (Caleb), Matt Cecka, Kathryn Hansen (Tyler), Nicole Wahl (Tom), Courtney Lindahl (Jesse), Trevor (Julia), and Tristan; 14 cherished great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law, Ardys Thorson.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, June 28, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m., both at Washburn-McReavy Northeast Chapel, 2901 Johnson St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418. Interment will take place at a later date.