Negaunee - Ruth Marion Larson, age 90, lived a life guided by curiosity, learning, and kindness, along with a deep love for family, animals, and the natural world.

She was the daughter of Raymond and Frieda Bender of Blue Island, Illinois, where she grew up. She married David Robert Larson in 1956, and they spent nearly 60 years building a loving and adventurous life together. They raised their family in Country Club Hills, Illinois. Dave preceded her in death in 2016.

Her children are Robert (Jo Marie), Michael (Linda), Leslie (Charles), and Ellyn (Robert). She doted on her grandson Eric, driving long distances with Dave to cheer on Eric at his many sporting events. Over the years, she also devoted time to caring for her mother and others when they needed extra support.

Ruth was the kind of mom who made childhood lively. She actively participated in her children’s many activities and was known for being the “fun mom” who encouraged exploration and instilled confidence for each of us to find our own path. Many of her children’s friends felt welcomed in her home and came to think of her as a second mom.

Ruth started her work life as an FBI stenographer, was a census field worker, and then worked for many years as an executive secretary. Ruth was a faithful member of United Christian Church in Country Club Hills and was a volunteer with the homeless shelter and other projects there. She was also active as a Girl Scout leader while her children were growing up and served as First Lady of Country Club Hills for eight years.

Ruth proudly fulfilled a lifelong goal by earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from DePaul University, Chicago, in 1990 while working full time. After retiring, she was a docent at the Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago, specializing in Sue, the famous T-Rex, and even went on a dinosaur dig.

Her curiosity about the world led to a lifelong passion for travel. Together she and Dave explored widely, visiting and camping in all 50 states—including driving their camper van to Alaska—and traveling to places across South America, Asia (especially Thailand), Africa, and Europe. As their children spread out across the country and the world, Ruth enjoyed traveling to spend time with them and staying closely connected wherever they lived.

Ruth loved animals, raising dozens of dogs, cats, and various pocket pets. She also participated in local trap-neuter-return efforts for feral cats. Ruth enjoyed bird watching and took pride in creating beautiful flower gardens and her carefully tended rock garden pond.

The family wishes to thank the wonderful, loving staff of Teal Lake Senior Living Community for their dedicated and compassionate care. We also thank UP Health System Marquette ICU and Cardiac staff for their kind, professional care at a time of great need.

In June, Ruth’s family will host a celebration of her life in Chicago. Details will be shared once arrangements are finalized. Memorial donations in her name can be made to the Upper Peninsula Animal Welfare Shelter at upaws.org (Donations/Tribute Gift) or mailed to: 815 South State Highway M553, Gwinn, MI 49841, or to your local PBS station.