Ruth Karjalainen

Ruth Karjalainen, 86, of Aberdeen, SD, passed away Wednesday, October 9,2024, at Avera St. Luke’s, Aberdeen, SD.

A graveside service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at Sunset Memorial Gardens with Pastor Justin Brotzel of Savo Lutheran Church officiating.

Ruth was born on March 16, 1938, in Emmons County, North Dakota to John and Lydia (Stock) Hoff.

Ruth married Elmer Karjalainen in November of 1960 in Aberdeen. They made their first home in the Frederick area on a farm where they had their two daughters: Barbara and Karen.

In 1981, her family and her moved to Aberdeen. Ruth worked at the Ramkota Inn and Avera St. Luke’s as a housekeeper until she retired in 2005.

Grateful for having shared Ruth’s life are her daughter Barbara (Harley) Ulmer of Las Vegas, NV; four grandchildren; and five great- grandchildren.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; husband Elmer of 54 years; daughter Karen Junkans; brothers: John, Emil, Ted, Arthur, and Albert; and sisters: Freida, Albine, Emma, and Louise

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