Ruth Eleanore Nelson

Ruth Nelson, 87, of Alexandria passed away Tuesday, December 5, 2023. A memorial service will be held Saturday, December 9, 2023 at Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria at 11:00 AM. Visitation will take place one hour prior to services. Burial will be at Kinkead Cemetery after the funeral luncheon.

Ruth Eleanore (Weisel) Nelson was born on the first day of spring, March 20, 1936 in Starbuck, Minnesota to William and Nellie (Thompson) Weisel.

She grew up with sister Nan (Helen) in rural Lowry, Minnesota and attended school there through the 8th grade. Then, the family moved to Alexandria where Ruth graduated from Central High School. After graduation, Ruth was employed by Board of Public Works (ALP). It was during this time her future husband, David Nelson, got a glimpse of Ruth and was forever smitten. Following his Army tour of duty, the two began dating and married on July 2, 1956. After her employment at ALP, Ruth worked for many years in the library as a media specialist at the high school in Alexandria, which she loved and her daughters tolerated.  

The family’s first home was on Lake Cowdry where Ruth and Dave’s two daughters, Patti and Linda, were blessed to live a carefree and idyllic childhood. Ruth and Dave would later go on to build their dream home on Lake Carlos.

Upon Dave’s retirement, many months were spent travelling both domestically and abroad, their highlight being a trip to the Holy Land, which they did twice. Ruth and Dave also shared a “healthy obsession” with golf. Through this, many beautiful friendships were forged.

One of Ruth’s greatest legacies was the extraordinary care she gave Dave throughout his battle with pulmonary fibrosis that allowed him to stay in their family home. Following Dave’s passing, Ruth’s life changed dramatically. She missed her life partner more than anything. In 2016 Ruth moved to Grand Arbor where she met many fun friends and enjoyed social gatherings.

On December 5, 2023 Ruth passed away of heart failure and dementia at Nelson Gables in Alexandria, Minnesota. Her family is grateful for all the tender loving care Ruth was given there.

Patti and Linda are forever grateful for loving parents who faithfully brought them to church and they have trust in a Heavenly reunion. Left to cherish Ruth’s memory are her two daughters: Patti (Jay) Loeppke of Alexandria, Linda (Larry) Radi of Billings, Montana; grandchildren: Jayson (Janie) Loeppke, Jenna (Michael) Carr, Krista (Jason) Frank, Michael (Kassandra) Radi, Kaitlyn Radi; great-grandchildren: Edward and Laurel Loeppke, Sisi and Jojo Carr, Tenley and AJ Frank, Anders Radi; her sister, Nan (Manly) Johnson; and brother-in-law, Al (Bev) Nelson; she is also survived my many beloved nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. Ruth is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Dave Nelson; and numerous treasured brothers and sisters-in-law.

IN LIEU OF FLOWERS MEMORIALS TO SAMARITAN’S PURSE, MOMENTS HOSPICE, AND FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH OF ALEXANDRIA.