Watch Ruth's Funeral Service

Ruthann M. Hoffman-Fugleberg, age 57, of Ada, MN, passed away on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at Essentia Health in Ada.

Ruth was born on September 20, 1966, the second youngest child to loving parents, Russell and Rita (Geiser) Hoffman. She grew up in Moorhead, MN, and attended Shanley High School, graduating with the class of 1984. Eager to make a difference, Ruth pursued higher education at St. Cloud State University, earning her bachelor's degree in human services.

After a short stint in Bismarck, Ruth made Ada her home, launching her laundromat venture, Fluff and Fold, and contributing to Hendrum HeadStart. The '90s brought a new chapter at Tri-Valley Opportunity Council, where Ruth donned many hats—HeadStart, housekeeping, social work, and even helping with the bus service. Her versatility and dedication made her an invaluable asset. In the midst of this busy life, Ruth found the love of her life, Doug Fugleberg, and their inseparable journey led to marriage in 2001.

In 2020, a new passion bloomed for Ruth as she joined the Norman County Historical Society in Ada. Here, she immersed herself in documenting local history, helping organize the annual Christmas Show, and embracing various odd jobs. Even as her health posed some challenges, her love for the work and volunteering prevailed.

Ruth enjoyed keeping herself busy, often cooking, canning, and baking special treats for loved ones, a favorite being her famous caramel. She delighted in outings with sisters and friends, exploring boutiques, enjoying pedicures and manicures, and discovering new restaurants (with a soft spot for Chinese cuisine). She enjoyed going to auctions to find new treasurers, often adding to her impressive collection of paperweights. In her quiet time, she loved curling up to read books, favorites being historical romances and the Dune series. Known fondly as the "Pumpkin Lady," Ruth and Doug spent over 17 years cultivating pumpkins, spreading seasonal joy in Fargo-Moorhead. Ruth was deeply devoted to her community, dedicating numerous hours to volunteer work and selfless service of others. Her playful nature, coupled with her genuine kindness, will leave a lasting memory in the hearts of her family and community.

Ruth is survived by her husband of 22 years, Doug Fugleberg; children, Alicia Mae (Travis Michaels) Fugleberg and Charlee Joseph Douglas Fugleberg; father, Russ (Judy) Hoffman; siblings: Rosemary Hirchert, Renae (Scott) Abrahamson, Roxanne (Tom) Young, and Roger (Cec Holzer) Hoffman; nieces and nephews: Nick, Krista, Laura, Janna, Alicia, Chris, Clara, and Josephine; great-nieces and nephews: Ryker, Jackson, Aydenn, and Cayden; and many extended family members. Ruth was preceded in death by her mother, Rita Hoffman; sister, Raenette Hoffman; foster brother, Darrell Wilkens; and one brother-in-law, Virgil Hirchert.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, November 17, 2023, at 11:00 a.m., with a visitation starting one hour before, at Anderson Family Funeral Home in Twin Valley, MN.