Ada Delores Kjos, 87, of Rushford, died Thursday, January 25, 2024, at her home, surrounded by family.
Ada was born April 25, 1936, in Riceford Township, near Mabel, Minn., to Adolph and Doris (Rank) Nelson. She worked her way through high school by nannying for the Roberton’s and graduated from Rushford High School in 1955. On June 22, 1957, she married Raymond Kjos at Rushford Lutheran Church. Ray and Ada began their journey together shortly before he joined the army, and soon after was stationed overseas. During the long-distance courtship, she worked in Texas City, Tex., and then at Mayo Clinic in Rochester. Following his discharge, they married and moved to Milwaukee where they raised their family. She was a devoted mother, making time to sew clothes, give haircuts, assist with school projects, and provide amazing homecooked meals. During their years in Milwaukee, she worked full time, initially at Lane Bryant and then Treasure Island Department Store for 14 years, never missing a day of work. In 1975 they had the opportunity to purchase Ray’s family farm in Rushford. Ada assisted Ray in farm operations, maintained a bountiful garden, and participated in many community organizations. She was an active member of the Priscilla Circle, Rushford Lutheran Church Women, Town and Country Women’s Federated Club, American Legion Auxiliary, and City of Rushford Village Treasurer for many years.
In 1997, Ada and Ray retired and really lived their retirement life to the fullest. In addition to travel, they enjoyed creating various forms of art, each having their own space in the house. Gourd art, paper cutting, rosemaling, oil painting, quilling, and scrimshaw were among the many forms she explored. Unable to sit idle for long, she could often be found working late into the night on a project or challenging puzzle. Her flower gardens and indoor plants were an extension of her creative talents and deep love of nature.
She leaves behind her loving husband Ray; three children, Teddy (Alison), Del (Holly) and Sonia (Steve); eight grandchildren: Trevor, Alex (Halley), Anna, Emily, Elena, Nathan, Kortney (Clarke) and Colson; three great-grandchildren: Casie, Walter and Arthur; and one sister, Doris (Jerry) Thrall.
She was preceded in death by her parents, nine brothers and three sisters.
Funeral service will be 2 p.m., Saturday, February 3, 2024, at Rushford Lutheran Church, with Reverend Steve Chellew officiating. The visitation will be 12 p.m., until the time of the service. She will be laid to rest at Rushford Lutheran Cemetery. Memorials are preferred to the Rushford Lutheran Church.
Hoff Funeral & Cremation Service – Rushford is assisting the family. www.hofffuneral.com.