Ruth Sanford

Ruth Adah (Pike) Sanford August 6, 1931 - February 7, 2025

With love and gratitude, we honor the life of Ruth Adah (Pike) Sanford, who passed away peacefully in her sleep on February 7, 2025, at the age of 93. A devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Ruth lived a full and meaningful life, leaving behind cherished memories and a legacy of love, wisdom, and laughter.

Born on August 6, 1931, in Sauk Rapids, MN, Ruth was the eldest child of Oscar and Inez (Jones) Pike. She grew up with her brothers, John Pike and Robert Pontious, and excelled academically, graduating from Princeton High School at just 16. She pursued a career as an X-ray technician, eventually working at Princeton Hospital, where she met her future husband, Donald Sanford, during an Army Reserves exam. They married in January 1952 and built a life together in Bloomington, MN, raising three children. After Donald's passing, Ruth remarried Dale Phelps in 1992.

A dedicated professional, Ruth held various roles throughout her life but found her greatest joy serving as a secretary for the athletic department at Normandale College. Passionate about education, she encouraged her loved ones to pursue their dreams. Beyond her career, Ruth embraced a vibrant life-whether cheering as a proud hockey mom, dancing with the Swirlers square dance group, or volunteering with Loaves and Fishes.

Ruth will be remembered for her adventurous spirit, quick wit, and unwavering devotion to family and friends. She relished travel, meaningful conversations, and-when necessary-expressed her opinion in a direct, sometimes pointed way. Her presence filled every room with warmth, and her strength and wisdom will remain in the hearts of those who loved her.

She is survived by her children, Michael (Melody) Sanford, Mary Richardson, and Todd (Patty Tyler) Sanford; grandchildren, Rachel (Matt) Horner, Alicia (Aaron) Dobratz, Evan (Allie) Sanford, Lara (Nick) Torison, Sonja Richardson and Andrew (Jayde) Tyler; and great-grandchildren, Taylor & Reese Horner, Emerson & Molly Sanford, and Carmine Torison.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Donald Sanford and Dale Phelps; brothers, John Pike and Robert Pontious; and son-in-law, Mark Richardson.

A celebration of Ruth's life will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2025, 11:00 am at First Congregational Church, 610 1st St., Princeton, MN. Visitation begins at 10:00 a.m. with a luncheon following the service. Interment will take place at 1:30 p.m. at Oak Knoll Cemetery, 511 13th Ave N., Princeton, MN.

Memorials may be directed to the Princeton Food Pantry, 104 6th Ave S, Princeton, MN, 55371.