Karen L. Ruff

Karen Leann Ruff, age 75, of Culbertson, passed away Friday, October 13, 2017 at her home surrounded by family. She was born in McCook on July 22, 1942 to Guy Leon and Rosa Eleanor (Schlegel) Nelson. Karen graduated from McCook High School in 1960 and continued her education at Barnes Business College in Denver, CO receiving her degree as a Paralegal. She was united in marriage to James Curtis Ruff on November 1, 1964 in Aurora, CO. They resided in Arvada, CO from 1964 until 1981 when they moved to a farm near the McCook community. Karen worked as Paralegal at the Atler Law firm in Colorado, a secretary at Arvada Rubbish in Colorado, and a secretary for the United Methodist Church in McCook. In 1981, she began working for Mousel, Garner and Rassmussen where she worked as a Paralegal. She retired in 2009. Above all her professions, she was always a farm wife helping in every aspect of the farming operation. Karen was very active in the McCook community where she was involved in various groups to include the United Methodist Women, Sarah Circle, various Bible studies, Red Hat Society, PEO, and Young Moderns Extension Club. She actively volunteered at the Helping Hand Thrift Store, the Methodist Church providing meals, and Red Cross Blood Drive. Karens hobbies included gardening, puzzles, playing games, reading, fishing, and baking. She especially loved the time spent with her grandchildren. Preceding her in death where her father, Guy Nelson; her mother, Rosa Wilcox; stepfather, Lynn Wilcox; sisters, Avis (Bob) Ray, Fern (Ken) McGuire, and Dorothy (Bob) McLaren; and brother, Arlyn "Buddy" Nelson. Survivors include husband, James Ruff of Culbertson; children, Rhonda (Don) Ellis, Benkelman, Curt (Laverna) Ruff, Ft. Collins, CO and Keith (Joey) Ruff, Grand Island; six Grandchildren, Zoey Ellis, Devani and Alexis Ruff, Ethan, Colton and Gavin Ruff; sister, Nadine (Gerald) Owens, Crossville, TN; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and a host of friends. In lieu of flowers the family request any donations to go to the Helping Hand or Community Hospital Home Health/Hospice. Visitation will be Sunday, October 15, 2017 at Herrmann Jones Funeral Chapel in McCook from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The family will be present from 5:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. to greet friends. Words of condolence may be sent to the family at www.herrmannfh.com Funeral service will be Monday, October 16, 2017, 2:30 p.m. at Memorial United Methodist Church with Pastor Alisa Parde officiating. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. Herrmann Jones Funeral Chapel of McCook is entrusted with arrangements. Visitation

Sunday, October 15, 2017 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Family will greet friends from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Monday, October 16, 2017 2:30 PM