Ruth LeAnn. Steigerwald, 87, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away Wednesday, Nov.12, 2014, at her home in Austin, Minnesota.

Ruth was born at home on March 5, 1927, in Mitchell County, Iowa to Elmer and Nora (Enerson) Nelson.  After her graduation from Elkton High School in 1945, she attended beauty school in Mankato. On March 18, 1950, Ruth and John Steigerwald were united in marriage at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin. Ruth and John were together over 25 years and were blessed with two daughters.

Ruth eventually opened her own beauty shop (Ruth’s Beauty Shop) and operated it for over 50 years. A member of Grace Lutheran Church and the Hoe and Grow Garden Club, she loved her flowers and gardening, enjoyed dancing, playing bingo, camping, fishing, and family gatherings.  An avid wrestling fan, she recently attended a WWF event.  Ruth also belonged to the Moose Club and area craft clubs.

Survivors include her daughters Marcia (Eugene) Rauen and Patricia (Jerald) Adams, both of Austin, Minnesota; two grandsons Michael (Leslie) Kuiper of Austin, Minnesota and Matthew Kuiper (Beth Hastings) of Austin, Minnesota; five great grandchildren, Hailie Freese, Christina Kuiper, Johanna Kuiper, Raey Hastings V, and Annalisea McKee.

She was preceded in death by her parents Elmer and Nora Nelson, and two sisters, Daphine Jorstad and Jean Cipra.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 21, 2014, at Grace Lutheran Church in Austin with Pastor Jeff Forbes officiating. Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 20, at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin, and one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday. Interment will be in Grandview Cemetery.  Memorials can be directed to recipient of donor’s choice. Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.