Fosston, MN (trfnews.i234.me) – Family and friends in Polk County are remembering Ruth Marie “Ruthie” Rystad.
She died on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at The Meadows of Wadena in Wadena.
Ruthie was 89.
Ruth Marie “Ruthie” Rystad, longtime Fosston resident and beautician.
Early Years and Faith in Fosston
Ruth Marie (Hanson) Rystad was born July 28, 1936.
She grew up in the Fosston area with family and friends close by.
She was baptized and confirmed at Hope Lutheran Church in Fosston.
More information about the congregation is on the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America website.
Ruthie graduated from Fosston High School in 1955.
She sang in the chorus and played the French horn in the band.
After high school, she moved to Minneapolis.
In 1956, she attended beauty school there and trained as a beautician.
Marriage, Family, and Farm Life
In 1957, Ruthie married Vernon “Bud” Rystad.
The couple lived in Minneapolis and Bagley before settling near Fosston.
They eventually moved to a farm outside town.
There, they raised their family and worked the land together.
Ruthie loved caring for the yard and gardens on the farm.
She and Bud spent many hours mowing, planting, and trimming.
She took special pride in flowers and neat rows.
Family recalls that her yard always looked welcoming.
Years Behind the Chair as a Beautician
Ruthie worked for many years as a beautician in Fosston.
Clients said her styling skills were excellent.
They also said her listening ear meant just as much.
Many customers returned for the friendly talk and support she offered.
Her chair became a place of trust and community.
She was known for a warm smile and easy laughter.
People left feeling better about their day.
Art, Decorating, and Time With Loved Ones
Ruthie had a keen eye for decorating.
She liked to rearrange furniture or paint walls when inspired.
She wanted her home to feel fresh, cozy, and inviting.
She enjoyed charcoal drawing and sketching.
She often worked her art into her home decor.
Ruthie felt happiest when surrounded by friends and family.
She loved big holiday gatherings and quiet times of shared stories.
Family She Leaves Behind
Ruthie is survived by her daughters, Vicki and Sue.
Vicki (Craig) Helling and their family include Mia Helling (Chris Breitenfeldt), Easten, and Rowan of Grand Forks, North Dakota; Patrick (Amy) Helling and Gradie of Fergus Falls; Kylee (Payton) Jordahl, Miles, and Hayes of Perham; and Tyler (Emily) Helling, Mylah, and baby Helling of Brainerd.
She is also survived by Sue (Dean) Schnichels and their sons, Cole and Ethan, of Lakeville.
Her sister, Audrey (Kenny) Merschmann of Bemidji, also survives her.
Sisters-in-law Donna Thomas and Carol Jean (Leo) Taflin remain as well.
Ruthie was preceded in death by her husband, Vernon “Bud” Rystad.
She was also preceded by her parents, Eddie and Inga Hanson.
Her sister, Marjie Jeska, and her parents-in-law, Tommy and Clara Rystad, preceded her.
Sister-in-law Alene Bjerklie, brothers-in-law Rod Bjerklie and Don Thomas, and special friend John Bjerken also passed before her.
Service, Burial, and Online Condolences
An open house celebrating Ruthie’s life was held on Wednesday, November 26, 2025.
It ran from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
The gathering took place in the fellowship hall at Hope Lutheran Church in Fosston.
A short prayer service followed at 1:00 p.m.
Interment will be in Hope Lutheran Cemetery at a later date.
Funeral arrangements are with Carlin Family Funeral Service of Fosston.
Messages of condolence may be shared on the Carlin Family Funeral Service website.
Grief support information and resources are also available from the GriefShare program
and other national groups.
Family and friends say Ruthie will be remembered for her kindness, joy, and love.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
