Ruth Jane Kent

Ruth (Ruthie) Jane Kent, born April 11, 1935, to Herman and Isadore (Cain) Stankey, peacefully passed away at home on August 14, 2025, with her devoted husband by her side. Ruth enlightened the world for 90 years with her love for her family and friends. 

Ruth was raised west of Mondovi on Highway 10, where she walked to Harvey School for her early education and graduated from Mondovi High School with the Class of 1952.

 A new neighbor moved onto the farm across the road, capturing Ruth’s heart. She and this new neighbor, Duttie, were united in marriage on April 25, 1953, at Zion Lutheran Church in Mondovi, and also celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary there this year with family and friends. 

Ruth's first job off the farm was as a car hop in Mondovi, at Joel’s Drive-In. When she learned of a retirement at Berg’s Drug Store, she applied and began her career there. Despite the first week's uncertainty she felt, Ruth had found her true calling and continued through the ownership transitions to Mahlum Pharmacy and Mondovi Pharmacy, ultimately retiring in 1999 after 45 years. She made lifetime friends with many customers and other employees while at the pharmacy. 

While working at the pharmacy, Ed Mahlum introduced Ruth and Duttie to the joy of old-time dancing. Together, Ruth and Duttie danced at various venues, including Lone Pine, Club 10, Osseo Paladium, The Pines, and Moose Club. They even traveled to a three-day dance festival at the Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota, to see their favorite band, The Rhythm Playboys. Onlookers noticed that Ruth and Duttie seemed to float across the dance floor in perfect harmony. Over the years, they formed lasting friendships with many wonderful people along the way. 

Ruth’s contributions extended beyond the pharmacy; she assisted Duttie on the farm, mowing the lawn, tending to their gardens, and preserving countless jars of garden goodness. She was well-known for her exceptional baking and the loving meals she prepared. 

Ruth is survived by her beloved husband Duttie, along with nieces, nephews, family, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, sisters Vera, Genesse, Arvilla, Beulah, brother Clarence, brother-in-law Vilas, and sister-in-law Maurita. 

A visitation and funeral service for Ruth will be held Sunday, August 24, 2025, at Zion Lutheran Church in Mondovi, with visitation from 12:00 pm until the time of the service at 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow the service at Oak Park Cemetery, Mondovi. In lieu of flowers or memorials, memorial contributions may be directed to the Zion Lutheran Church Organ Fund. 

We give thanks to God our Father through Jesus Christ, our Lord, for the blessing of Ruth in our lives. Come and celebrate her life and legacy.

 Heartfelt thank you to St. Croix Hospice, Appeal to Heaven, and all who supported Ruth in her final days.

Please share a memory of Ruth or express your condolences at www.talbotfuneralhomes.com.