Ruth Evelyn Ferguson

Ruth Evelyn Ferguson of Spirit Lake, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 8, 2024, just two weeks shy of her 92nd birthday.

 Ruth was born on December 22, 1932, in Coon Rapids, Iowa, to Charles and Olive Davidson. She grew up on the family farm alongside her brother Lee, cherishing her rural upbringing while developing a lifelong love of the land and embraced her way of life from its roots. She graduated from Laurens High School in 1950, where she met her future husband, (Eldon) John Ferguson. The couple married on June 9, 1951, at the Laurens Methodist Church.

 Ruth and John initially farmed near Laurens before relocating to Spirit Lake in 1966, where they raised their two sons, Jeffrey Charles, born in 1955, and Steven John, born in 1961. Ruth was a devoted mother who took immense pride in her sons’ accomplishments. She enthusiastically supported their participation in 4-H cattle shows, sports, and other activities. Her love extended to her three grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and she was a loyal fan of basketball, particularly following the Iowa Hawkeyes and Iowa State Cyclones.

 In the 1980’s Ruth and John established Lakes Commodities, a business where Ruth thrived, including providing market reports for the local radio station—a role for which her clear, engaging voice was well-suited.

 Ruth’s creativity and attention to detail were evident in her beautifully decorated home, her floral arrangements, and her vibrant gardens. She especially loved Christmas, embracing the holiday with joy through festive décor, delicious meals, and thoughtful gifts.

 She was a warm and engaging conversationalist with a remarkable memory for people and events. Ruth enjoyed bridge games, walks with friends, and reading. Her connection to family and friends was a cornerstone of her life, and she cherished the relationships she built over the years.

 Ruth is survived by her sons: Jeff (Barb) Ferguson of Bozeman, MT, and Steve (Lisa) Ferguson of Dakota Dunes, SD; her grandchildren: Austin (Jena) Ferguson and their children Miles and Grace of Dakota Dunes, SD; Tanner (Kayla) Ferguson and their daughter Penny Lou of Sioux Falls, SD; and Taylor Ferguson (fiancé Bailey Hawn) of Des Moines, IA. She is also survived by her nieces Cindy Redmon and Judy Larsen, nephew Tom Davidson, and their families.

 She was preceded in death by her husband, John; her brother, Lee and his wife, Betty; her parents, Charles and Olive Davidson; and many dear friends and family members.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Ruth’s honor may be directed to Spirit Lake United Methodist Church, Northwest Iowa Human Society or American Diabetes Association.