Ruth C. Linnemeyer gently departed this world on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at Bethany Home Brandon, where she received compassionate hospice care. At the age of 94, Ruth's life journey had touched many hearts.

Born on May 18, 1931, in Jasper, Minnesota, to loving parents Basil and Elizabeth (Dhamers) Koppernolle, Ruth grew up on a farm near Jasper. When her family transitioned from farming to owning Curley's Café, she cherished her teenage years spent in this close-knit community alongside her dear sister Mabel and brothers Charles and John.

Ruth found joy in singing during high school as a member of the girls' sextet. Her passion for music continued as she joined the Sioux Falls community choir, where she had the honor of performing Handel's Messiah with the South Dakota Symphony.

After high school, Ruth worked at the Jasper State Bank alongside her sister Mabel, where she met her future husband, Don Linnemeyer, who had recently returned from WWII. They united in marriage on August 6, 1950, in Pipestone, Minnesota, beginning a beautiful journey together. Shortly after their wedding, Don was recalled to the Navy Reserve, and they relocated to Mare Island, California, where they welcomed their first son, David. Once Don completed his service, they moved back to Pipestone, MN, where they joyfully raised their three sons: David, Bruce, and William.

Ruth's love for her family was immeasurable. After nurturing her boys and being their steadfast support, she decided to pursue her education, earning a BA in Social Science from Southwest State University in Marshall, MN. Later, after Don and Ruth moved to Sioux Falls, she furthered her passion for helping others by earning a Master's Degree in Counseling from SDSU in Brookings, SD. Ruth dedicated herself to volunteering with various local organizations, including Stephen Ministries, Children's Inn, and the Sioux Falls Police Department. In her 70s, she earned a CDC certificate as a chemical dependency counselor, channeling her love for people into impactful service.

Ruth loved her family, friends, and community, often reflecting on the countless blessings her life had offered. Her faith in the Lord provided a solid foundation that anchored her throughout her life.

In 2017, Ruth faced the challenges of dementia, finding a loving home at Bethany Home in Brandon. There, she received exceptional care and formed meaningful connections with staff and residents, bringing joy and kindness to everyone around her. Ruth's loving spirit shone through as she prayed daily for the health and well-being of those she cared about.

Ruth is preceded in death by her beloved husband Don, her sons David and Bill, her cherished granddaughter Erin, her sister Mabel, her brothers John and Charles, and her devoted parents Basil and Elizabeth Koppernolle.

She leaves behind her loving son, Bruce Linnemeyer; her daughter-in-law, Diana; her granddaughter, Jill (Ryan Malfero); her joyful great-grandson, Lucas Malfero; and a multitude of hearts she touched throughout her remarkable life. Her memory will forever be celebrated by all who had the privilege to know her.

A funeral service will take place at Noon on Saturday, May 2, 2026, with family present for a visitation beginning at 11:00 am, at First Lutheran Church in Christ the Victor Chapel, located at 327 S. Dakota Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104. Ruth will be buried at City of Jasper Cemetery, Jasper, Minnesota.