Ruth M. Keefe

Ruth M. Keefe, age 93, of Storm Lake, Iowa and formerly of Early, Iowa died April 18, 2013 at the Methodist Manor Retirement Community in Storm Lake. Ruth Marie Prentice was born June 9, 1919 in Sac City, Iowa the daughter of Frank and Mayme Prentice. Growing up, she lived on a farm in Sac City with her parents and sister who was two years younger. When she was six years old, tragedy struck the family and her mother was taken from her by the Lord. After that, she lived with her grandparents until she was twelve years old. At the age of twelve, she moved back to the farm with her father and sister. She then became the woman of the house and a student until she graduated from high school in 1937. Following graduation, she worked in the dime store in Sac City and later went to work for Dr. Molsberry as a dental assistant. At the age of 23, Ruth met James Keefe. He bid on her picnic basket at a benefit and won her heart for only 18 cents. They were married in 1944. She was a war bride during World War II. They were stationed in Denver for a time and their first child was born there. Ruth then moved back to the farm with her husband's parents and soon gave birth to a little girl in 1946. After the war, Ruth was a stay at home mom and gave birth to two more children in 1949 and 1951. She then began working at the Early Locker and in 1956 she went back to work for Dr. Molsberry. Ruth continued working for him until his retirement and then she began working for Dr. Egeland. She was a proud dental assistant with wonderful stories and memories. In 1981, Ruth retired and by this time, she was a grandmother to six beautiful grandchildren. Ruth enjoyed traveling with her husband to visit family and friends. Ruth was a member of the infamous SOS Club which became an entity and monthly event from 1946-2006. In 1989, Ruth and Jim left the farm and moved to Early and lived in their dream house until 2006. She took great pride and joy in their home and often won the contest for the best decorated house in Early during Christmas. During the winter of 2006, they moved to Lake Pointe Villa in Storm Lake, Iowa. Ruth created a wonderful warm and loving home environment. She was a great cook and was often heard whistling while she cooked. She loved her garden, her colorful flowers, and she cared very much about the appearance of her home and yard. She was a compassionate woman who showed tremendous strength of character. Ruth will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. Those left to cherish her memory include her husband, James Keefe of Storm Lake, Iowa; children: James F. (Kathy) Keefe of Lake View, Iowa; Patricia Kent of Denver, Colorado; Kathleen Keefe of Storm Lake, Iowa; grandchildren Aaron (Aimee) Beazley; Christopher Beazley; Dawn (Dave) Powell, Bridie (Hans) Frey; Andrew (Michele) Kent; Ryan (Michelle) Keefe; ten great grandchildren: Tyler, Courtney, Aubree, Adam, Brianna, Austin, Aiden, Halley, Jackson and Alyssa; half brother, Jonathan Prentice; extended family and friends. Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Margaret "Peggy" Beazley; and her sister, Fern.

Ruth M. Keefe

June 9, 1919 - April 18, 2013