Ruth Cook

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Cook, Ruth of Farmington, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2016 surrounded by her loving family. Ruth was born in New Richland, MN on August 8, 1922. The youngest of eight children of Andrew F. and Hulda Sponberg. Christian values were instilled in her by her family and education at Vista Lutheran Church. Farm life nurtured a strong work ethic. Ruth graduated from Gustavus Adolphus College in 1944 and began her teaching career in Truman, MN. In 1946 she met Earl L. Cook, a Farmington Veterinarian. They were married in 1947 and were inseparable during 57 years of marriage. Ruth resumed her teaching at Farmington High School in 1961 where she impacted the lives of countless students in her English and Speech classes over the next twenty five years. Ruth was an active member of Farmington Lutheran Church, P.E.O. and served her community faithfully. She enjoyed her bridge club, playing cribbage, and in her younger years she was an avid bowler. Ruth was an enthusiastic supporter of Farmington High School athletics and activities. She and Doc were passionate Minnesota Gopher and Vikings football fans. In retirement she enjoyed spending the winters in Fountain Hills, AZ; visiting their children and grandchildren and traveling to see their many friends. Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Earl "Doc"; brothers, Herman, Arvid, Herbert, Harold, and Raymond; sisters, Linnea Peterson, and Evelyn Young. Survived by her children Tom (Debbie) of Greenfield, MN, Larry (Mary) of Fairfax, VA, Mary Lou (Bill) Ferrell of Excelsior, MN; grandchildren, Stacy (Jeff), Shean (Leann) Michael, Catherine (Nick), Kersten (John), Molly (Brandon), Steven (Catherine), Lindsay (Hunter), and Emily; thirteen great-grandchildren; brothers- and sisters-in-law; and many nieces & nephews. The family is grateful for the compassionate care Ruth received at Presbyterian Homes at Lake Minnetonka Shores. Funeral Services 11 am Friday, June 3 at Farmington Lutheran Church, 20600 Akin Road, Farmington, MN. Visitation 4-8 pm Thursday at White Funeral Home, 901 3rd Street, Farmington, MN and also one hour prior to the service at church. Interment will follow at St. Michael's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Farmington Lutheran Church or to a scholarship to be established in Ruth's memory at FHS. White Funeral Home Farmington 651-463-7374 whitefuneralhomes.com

Published on June 1, 2016