Ruth Ellen Knutson, 91, passed away on March 21, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love and strength. Born March 23, 1932, in Omaha, Nebraska,to Violet Pansy Smith and John Hubert O’Neal, Ruth was a prayer warrior and a strong foundation for her family.

    Ruth's life was one of dedication and service. After graduating from Campion Academy in 1952 and receiving her licensed practical nursing (LPN)certificate in 1972, she embarked on a rewarding yet challenging career. For almost three decades, Ruth compassionately cared for mostly the elderly, working the shifts that were more difficult for others and paying attention to the needs of those who are sometimes forgotten.

   In1953, Ruth married Claude Bernard Knutson in Rapid City, South Dakota. Through both hardship and joy, they raised six children, who were her pride and happiness. Ruth's family grew to include many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will miss her kisses,tickles, and clever sense of humor.

    Ruth's passions extended beyond nursing which she retired from in 2004 in Sheridan. She was an avid traveler, a hobby sculptor and artist, anda lover of a good story. Her hands were rarely still, as she was also a skilled quilter and gardener.

    Known for her unwavering dedication to scripture studies and prayer, Ruth was a pillar of the SDA community. Even when finances were poor forRuth, she would tithe and give faithfully to those in need, always trusting in the Lord for provision.

    Predeceased by her parents, Violet and John, her husband, Claude, her son Craig,and her siblings, Richard, Lucille, and Steven, Ruth's memory will be honored and cherished by her surviving family. Her children, Jimmy Knutson, Jeff (Dawn) Knutson, Diana Crider, Thomas Knutson, andShelley Knutson; her grandchildren, Christopher, Eric, Cassandra,Adam, Amy, Jessica, and Jonathan; fourteen great-grandchildren; and 2great-great grandchildren, along with all their families, will deeply miss her resilient, funny, strong spirit.

    A celebration of life for Ruth will be held Sunday April 7, 2024, at2:00 p.m. at the Seventh-Day-Adventist Church, located at 345 S. Main St., Sheridan, Wyoming with a dessert reception to follow at the church hall. Ruth will be laid to rest at Sheridan Municipal Cemetery arranged by Kane Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Ruth’s favorite charity Gospel Outreach, P.O. Box 8,College Place, WA 99324.

    RuthEllen Knutson's legacy is one of resilient love, quiet faith, and unwavering generosity. Her spirit will continue to touch all who knew her, and her memory will be a blessing to her family and the many lives she touched.

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A Celebration Of Life will be at the Sheridan Seventh-day Adventist Church on Sunday April 7, 2024 at 2:00 pm with a Dessert Reception to follow at the Hall.

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Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with local arrangements.

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