Ruth I. Watkins, born December 15, 1934 in Prinsburg, MN. Her daughter was at her side as she was taken into the arms of her savior February 25, 2019. Her parents were John and Rena Korthuis and she was the youngest of 13 children.

On April 22, 1953, she married Lester Watkins of Grand Rapids, MI, where she was working for Michigan Bell Telephone. While he was in the service they lived in San Diego and Long Beach, CA. When they were living in St. Paul, MN, Les graduated from watchmaking school, they had their daughter Renae. During her life they owned jewelry stores in Nebraska City, NE and Lead, SD.

She is survived by her daughter, Renae Hanson and her husband Dan, three grandsons, Justin Heller and his wife Candace, Brian Heller and Brandon Heller. Also, three great grandsons, Wade Heller, Austin Heller and Brayden Heller. A brother Harold Korthuis and his wife Yvonne of Willmar, MN, a brother LaVerne Korthuis and his wife Betty of Granite Falls, MN, and a sister Margie Lepsch of Grand Rapids, MI. Also, nieces and nephews too numerous to mention.

A reception will be held at the First United Methodist Church at 2:30 Sunday, March 10, 2019. The church is located at 132 North Adams Ave. A private graveside service will be held at the Willow Grove Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for Stephens Ministry/First United Methodist Church, 132 N. Adams Ave., Buffalo, WY 82834.

Online condolences may be written at www.kanefuneral.com.

Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with local arrangements.

Sheridan & Johnson County Obituaries