Ruth Yira, age 78, of St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Thursday, June 27, 2024.

Ruth was born to Clarence and Eva (Nelson) Roeben in Dresser, Wisconsin on May 21, 1946. She grew up in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin along the St. Croix River - a home she cherished her entire life. Ruth graduated from St. Croix Falls High School in 1964. She completed training at Swedish Hospital and became certified as an O.R. Technician; 15 years later she became certified by the American Management Association Medical Institute of Medical Supply Management and Purchasing. Ruth worked for over 45 years in the nursing and health care field. On October 24, 1970, Ruth married Robert Yira of Grantsburg, Wisconsin. They were blessed with twin boys, Michael and Markus.

Ruth was a lifelong advocate for the fragile and frail of our community. In 1997, she received the Distinguished Service to the Community Award from Polk County Public Health in recognition of her outstanding efforts in raising public awareness of home care nursing. She was a passionate listener and voice for many. Ruth served on a number of committees and was actively involved with county employee and employer issues during her tenure with Polk County Public Health Department. Ruth was also a member of the St. Croix Falls Planning Commission for seven years.

Ruth loved the outdoors and going fishing with Bob. She was an avid Neil Diamond fan. She especially enjoyed gardening with Bob and canning the bounties from the garden. Ruth loved to bake and share her creations with family and friends. The coffee pot was on and goodies were always available at Ruthie’s house. Her specialty was making apple pies and giving them to family and friends. She especially enjoyed her flower gardens and watching the feathered and furry friends that graced their backyard. Ruth was passionate about growing iris and roses. She loved traveling to the Crex Meadows with Bob to watch the wildlife. Ruth was very passionate about the St. Croix River and their home along the river. Her greatest pride and joy was her family and spending time with them. She loved being a Grandma and Great-Grandma!

Ruth is survived by her husband of 53 years, Robert Yira; sons, Michael (Cindy) Yira and Markus (Dawn) Yira; grandchildren: Jordan (Greta) Yira, Kaitlin (Noah) Yira, Hannah Yira, Alison (Cass)) Longie, Logan Yira and Brandon (Korryn) Yira; great-grandchildren: Dawson and Presley Yira; brothers: Clarence (Carol) Roeben and Herman (Laura) Roeben and many nieces, nephews, cousins and special friends. Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Eva Roeben; Father-in-law and Mother-in-law Fred and Viola Yira; sister, Elizabeth Roeben and brother, Henry Roeben.

A memorial service will take place at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 at the Grandstrand Funeral Home in Osceola with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Family interment will follow the service at Oak Grove Cemetery in East Farmington.

Last Update: Jun 28, 2024 5:21 pm CDT