Ruth L. Bumgardner

Ruth was born on August 10, 1937, in Glidden, Wisconsin, to Carroll and Emma (Hill) Henthorn. She married Orrin Bumgardner on June 11, 1955, in Columbia Heights, Minnesota. Together they built a loving home in Blaine, where they resided throughout their lives.

A devoted mother, Ruth dedicated her life to her children: Valerie (Roger) Huigens, Steven (1966-2022), Donald (Jill) Bumgardner, and Kevin (Joel) Bumgardner. She was a cherished grandmother to Amanda (Travis), Emily, Kelly (Joseph), Ally, Katelyn, and Tomas, and also a beloved great-grandmother to Charlotte, Max, Harrison, Gabriella, and Oden. She extended her love beyond family with many dear friends, encouraging others with her warmth and kindness. Her faith in the Lord was inspirational, and she consistently prayed for everyone she knew and loved.

Ruth worked for many years as a paraprofessional at Northdale Junior High, where she was well known for her famous rhubarb creations. A gifted homemaker, she took pride in designing a warm and welcoming home, reflecting her deep sense of hospitality. She loved baking and generously shared her cookies, pies, bars, and butter rings, bringing joy to all who knew her.

Her infectious humor and love for shenanigans made her a joy to be around—she was always quick to laugh and brighten the room with her presence.

Her memory will forever live on in our hearts.

A Memorial Service will be held at 4:00 PM on Monday, March 17, 2025, at Oak Park Community Church in Blaine, with visitation one hour prior to the service.

In honor of Ruth’s generous spirit, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Minnesota Teen Challenge.

Romans 8:38-39

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”