Ruth U’Delle Woxland (Brigham)

Ruth U’Delle Woxland (Brigham) passed away recently following a period of significant health challenges.

Born in 1931, Ruth was defined by her resilience and dedication to her family. Raised in rural Minnesota during the Great Depression, she graduated from Houston High School in 1948. Ruth married Elmer Woxland in 1950. Together, they raised eight children while successfully managing a well repair business and a dairy farm for 47 years until Elmer’s passing.

Ruth lived independently on the farm near Peterson until very recently, where she was known for her capable spirit, her excellent baking and her perseverance in the face of chronic physical challenges. A woman of quiet strength, Ruth remained devoted to her family.

Ruth is preceded in death by her parents, husband Elmer, an infant son and son Clovis, daughter-in-law Carol, son-in-law Mark Santos, granddaughter Melissa Burt and her brothers Joel and Don Brigham. 

Ruth leaves behind many loved ones who will miss her dearly, including her children: Corrine, Doug (Betty), Gene (Nancy), Donna (Dick) Klug, Jan Santos, James, and Susan (Tom) Baker and Della Jetson Mehaffey (Clovis’ wife), as well as 23 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Ruth will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the community.

A celebration of life will be held at the Rushford Village Community Center on July 31, 2026, from 2-6 p.m. followed by a private graveside service.