Ruth A. Ostendorf

Ruth A. Ostendorf (nee: Sonntag), age 105, of Somerset, WI, died peacefully on November 10, 2020 at Our House Senior Living in New Richmond, WI.

She was born on May 28, 1915 in Somerset, WI to George and Alma (Rowe) Sonntag. She was baptized and confirmed at Christ Lutheran Church in Somerset, and graduated from Somerset High School. It was at a 4H neighborhood dance that she met her future husband, Raymond “Ray” Ostendorf. The two would later be married on June 22, 1944 at Christ Lutheran Church in Somerset. Their marriage would be blessed with daughter, Elaine.

Ruth worked at grocery stores in Somerset and Stillwater, and also at the Bank of Somerset, though she enjoyed most caring for her family as a homemaker. She was an avid baker and her cookie jar was always full for anyone who stopped by for a visit. No one left her home without one! She also could be frequently found helping Ray on the farm, feeding the chickens and sheep. She truly enjoyed her neighbors and loved keeping up on the news of their families. Ruth was longtime member of the St. Croix County Homemakers for many years. In the summer months, she cherished time spent at their family cabin in Sarona, WI, enjoying the sun from her chair overlooking the water. Ruth was a very kind and loving mother. She exuded graciousness and generosity with everyone she met, and was always content, rarely ever complaining about anything. She will be deeply missed by those that loved and cared about her.

She is survived by her daughter, Elaine (John) Herink; grandchildren, Michelle (Robert) McGlade and J. Michael (Stacy) Herink; and great-grandchildren: Alex and Carter Herink, and Alyssa McGlade.

She is preceded in death by her parents, George and Alma Sonntag; husband of 58 years, Raymond Ostendorf; and sisters, Georgia Sonntag and Lorna Springborn.

Visitation for Ruth will be held from 1:30-3:00pm on Friday, November 13, 2020 at the O’Connell Family Funeral Home, 520 S. 11th St., Hudson, followed by a Funeral Service at 3:00pm at the funeral home. Interment at Hillside Cemetery in Somerset, WI immediately following the service. Masks are required, and social distancing will be observed. Memorials are preferred to Christ Lutheran Church ELCA Women’s Group and/or the Hillside Cemetery Association.

Services entrusted to the O’Connell Family Funeral Home of Hudson, WI. (715) 386-3725. www.oconnellfuneralhomes.com