Ruth M. (Giversen) Anderson

Ruth Marie (Giversen) Anderson, age 88, passed away on February 18, 2026 at Crossing Rivers Health in Prairie du Chien, WI. Ruth, the first daughter of Leland and Eleanor (Fetting) Giversen, was born on July 17, 1937 in Winona, MN. Ruth's sister, Patricia, arrived five years later completing their family. The family grew up in Fountain City, WI along the beautiful mighty Mississippi River where her father was a barge captain, with her mother managing the household; taking care of the family. During those formative years, Ruth's interest grew by necessity in food preparation, sewing/quilting, and the arts.    

After graduating from Fountain City High School in 1955, Ruth attended the University of WI - Stout in Menomonie, WI. After graduating in May of 1959, earning a Home Economics Teaching degree, she became an instructor at UW-Stout. During her college years, she met Ronald Anderson, the son of J. Henry and Aileen Anderson, from Braham, MN and on June 20, 1959, the couple were married in Fountain City, WI.  

After their marriage, Ron and Ruth along with their two children, David and Kristen, moved to various locations pursuing Ron's career. In 1969, the Anderson family relocated to Fennimore, WI when Ron accepted a position at Southwest Wisconsin Vocational-Technical Institute as Director. The Fennimore area welcomed the Anderson family and lifelong friendships were formed. During this time, Ruth enjoyed family life as a wife and mother, always welcoming family and friends into their home. Using her talents in sewing, quilting and painting, she made gifts for the family/friends while winning awards for her work. Later, she quilted and sewed for charity.  

The family has many fond memories of camping at various scenic campgrounds throughout the US, visiting theme parks/tourist destinations in Florida, summer vacation stays and visits at her parent's home in Cochrane, MN and stays with family at the Anderson's farm in Braham, MN and visiting cousins in Fountain City, WI.   

Other memories include time spent at the family's cabin in Bagley, enjoying their time boating and relaxing on the river. After retirement, Ron and Ruth became "snowbirds" traveling in their motorhome throughout the southern states making Yuma, AZ their home during the winter months. The entire Anderson family treasured their lifelong friendships and memories made in Fennimore and Bagley, as well as time spent with family and friends on their travels.

Ruth is survived her son, David (Laura) Anderson of Franklin, daughter, Kristen (Joey) Bailey of Prairie du Chien, sister Patricia Harris of Fennimore; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Geneva Anderson, Morris Plains, NJ; Robert Anderson, Cambridge, MN; Kathleen (Richard) Carlson, Nisswa, MN; Polly (Dr. Donald) Grossbach, Braham, MN, and several special nieces and nephews and many cherished friends.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Ronald (2/4/2002); her father and mother-in-law; brothers-in-law, Ronald Harris, Roger Anderson; and sister-and brother in-law DeAnna and Donald Anderson. 

The family would like to thank Agrace Hospice Care, Bluff Haven Assisting Living and Crossing Rivers Health in Prairie du Chien for the wonderful care she received during her stay. As well, the spiritual comfort and support provided by Pastor Miranda Klosterboer and Pastor Hillary Burns-Kite.

Funeral services will be held at St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church, 201 South Michigan Street in Prairie du Chien with a private burial at a later date. Visitation will be held from 9:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, February 28, 2026 with the funeral service beginning at 11:00 A.M. 

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