Ruth Belva Ekern, age 97, of Blair, died on Thursday, November 26, 2020 in the Gundersen Tri-County Care Center in Whitehall.

Ruth was born October 19, 1923 to Albert and Gena (Mickelson) Johnson. She married James Ekern in the Zion Lutheran parsonage in Blair on June 5, 1943. James preceded Ruth in death on October 28, 2000.

Ruth worked for Countryside Lefse Co. and retired after 23 years of rolling lefse.

Ruth farmed beside James on the Ekern farm in Lakes Coulee where they raised their four children. Ruth was a 4-H leader and was very active in the church and participated in the Salome Circle, WELCA, tour dinners, Sunday school teacher, and quilting.

Ruth is survived by three sons, Gerald (Judy), Kenneth (Carol), and James Jr. (friend Sharon); a daughter, Valerie (Allen) Schorbahn, eleven grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, seven great-great-grandchildren, a sister, Alice Herried, a sister-in-law, Jean Johnson, special nieces Donna and Nancy, and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Ruth was preceded in death by a sister, Esther Roseth and two brothers, Harold and Ralph Johnson.

Private family services are being held.

Memorials may be sent to the family at the following address: Valerie Schorbahn N39276 County Road D, Whitehall, WI 54773.

The Jack Funeral Home in Blair is assisting the family with arrangements.