Ruth McDermott, 98, passed away on July 15, 2025 at the Monument Health Hospice House in Rapid City, SD.
Ruth was born on August 22, 1926 to Henry and Anna (Babb) Wahlfeldt in Twilight, SD. She attended grade school in Twilight then went on to graduate from Newell, SD in 1944. Following graduation, she continued to ranch with her family until she was married.
On July 29, 1947, Ruth married Edward McDermott in Sturgis, SD. The couple lived in Sturgis for a year before buying the Mud Butte Store in Mud Butte, SD. Ruth and Edward owned and operated the store for 20 years before selling it and moving to Spearfish, SD. Ruth worked as a motel maid.
In 1968, they moved to Rapid City, SD. Ruth worked various positions until going to work for Landstrom’s Jewelry Company soldering jewelry in 1975. Ruth earned the “Employee of the Month” award in November of 1985.She retired from Landstrom’s Jewelry in 1992.
After retirement, Ruth enjoyed extra time for her crafts and hitting the casinos in Deadwood as often as she could. She also loved visits from family and friends (as long as they didn’t interfere with trips to Deadwood)! She was also a member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary in Sturgis. Ruth was happily married to Eddie for almost 60 years until he passed away in 2007.
Ruth is survived by her children Dennis (Robin), Janet, Duane, Randy (Stephanie), and Kristie (Tony), grandchildren Kelli (Todd), Ed (Cindy), Tina (Roger), Tricia (Cesar), and James (Ashley), and several great and great-great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, husband, son Owen, son-in-law Fred, and daughter-in-law Mary.
We would like to thank the staff of Monument Health Hospice for giving our mom and our family love, compassion, kindness and peace and comfort in her final days. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the Monument Health Hospice House in Rapid City.