Ida "Ruth" Bloes

Sibley, IA        Ida “Ruth” Bloes, age 91 of Sibley, IA died Wednesday, February 24, 2016 at the Country View Manor in Sibley, IA.      Memorial Mass will be 11:00 AM, Friday, March 11, 2016 at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Sibley, with Father Siby Punnoose as celebrant.        Burial will follow in the Holman Township Cemetery in Sibley, IA.        Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church.        Ida “Ruth” Bloes was born on May 23, 1924 and raised in Arco, MN, the daughter of Edward and Helen (Woodard) Blegen. She was the youngest of four children. Ruth grew up in the country on her family farm and spoke about fond memories of what her life was like then despite the struggles of that era. It was likely this upbringing is what forged her into the determined and capable woman she became.      Ruth married Walter Salzman on August 7, 1941 in Missouri. To this union three children were born: Susan, Mark, and Leann; who she adored. The roles of wife, homemaker, and mother were cherished above all. Ruth later went on to receive a degree in nursing. She put in many years and was very proud of her profession and her position, which she held at the Sibley hospital until her retirement. Her hard work, dedication, and love showed through in both her family and career.      After the death of her husband Walter on November 5, 1980, Ruth married a longtime family friend, Roger Bloes on June 25, 1981 in Sibley, IA. Ruth continued her life in Sibley alongside Roger. Together they enjoyed hosting dinner parties, collecting Santa Claus decorations, and traveling. They delighted in decorating their home at Christmastime and celebrating the season with family and friends.      After her husband Roger’s death in May of 2010, Ruth moved to northern Minnesota to be closer to her youngest daughter and family. After moving there she celebrated numerous joyous occasions and had the chance to pass on many of her valued life lessons to her family. Ruth eventually returned to Sibley, IA, where she spent her final days enjoying visits with family and friends. Never one to miss a celebration, Ruth also ventured across Iowa in September to attend her great-granddaughter’s wedding and to spend that special time with those she held dearest. She then made one final trip up north, to celebrate in grand fashion, her favorite holiday surrounded by her loving family.      Ruth was known for her great sense of humor and infectious laugh. She was never without a good joke and was always waiting for the opportunity to share a laugh. Ruth was a special lady who will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.        Ruth is survived by her two daughters: Susan (Joe) Smith of Sibley, IA and Leann (Mike) Fitzpatrick of Iron, MN; thirteen grandchildren, twenty-five great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren; special friend, Peter Wilhelm of Virginia, MN; and many nieces, nephews and other extended family and friends.        She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Helen Blegen; first husband, Walter Salzman; second husband, Roger Bloes; son, Mark Salzman; one sister, Lillian Heinz; two brothers, Raymond and Orlando Blegen; and a great-grandson, Jesse Shipp III.