Ruth Marie Frederickson was born November 10, 1921 in Benson, Minnesota, to Christian and Johanna (Olson) Svingen. Ruth was baptized and confirmed at Lake Hazel Lutheran Church and attended the local country grade school. Ruth graduated from Benson High School with the Class of 1939. On October 22, 1944, Ruth was united in marriage to Don Frederickson at Lake Hazel Church. They were blessed with five children and 43 years of marriage. The family lived on a farm in Hayes Township of Swift County. Ruth spent her time taking care of the home and was a dedicated partner to her husband and a loving mother to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was an enthusiastic supporter of her community including her church, school, 4-H, VFW, Historical Society, and Prairie 5. She loved to sew, sing, and play cards. Her greatest enjoyment was laughing and sharing fellowship with her family and friends. Ruth was called from this life on Thursday, February 17, 2011 at her home. She attained the age of 89 years, 3 months and 7 days. Ruth is survived by her children: James (Sandee) Frederickson of Rogers, Mark (Mary Kay) Frederickson of Starbuck, Julie (Jim) Gunkelman of Kindred, ND, and Kathryn Frederickson of Murdock; nine grandchildren: Eric Frederickson, Marc (Becky) Frederickson, Nate (Jayna) Frederickson, Sarah Frederickson, Ben (Amy) Gunkelman, Emily Gunkelman, Lucas Gunkelman, Evan Kapaun, and Ashley Kapaun; eight great-grandchildren: Anthony, Gage, Trenton, Trey, Ty, Teegan, and Tiernan Frederickson, and Jackson Gunkelman; a brother, Rueben Svingen of Worthington; many nieces, nephews; and other relatives and friends. Preceding her in death were her husband in 1988; a son Peter; her parents; two sisters: Esther Gomer and Hazel Pederson; and three brothers: Thov (died at age 6), Trygve, and Thov Svingen.
