Ruth E. Grulkowski

Ruth Elaine (Smith) Grulkowski, age 80, of Minnesota City, passed away on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at Winona Health.

Ruth was born on April 23, 1945, in Chatfield, Minnesota, to Lyle and Violet (Raveill) Smith. She was the proud mother of Susan Feuling, Alice (Tom) Averbeck, and Curtis Jr. (Lisa) Jonsgaard, and a devoted and loving grandmother “Grams” to Latasha (James) Larson, Alexia Averbeck, Mitchell Averbeck, Kayla Jonsgaard, Mckenzie Feuling, and Kelsy Jonsgaard.

In 1990, Ruth met Joe Grulkowski; together they shared a love of dancing and companionship. Their weekends were filled with music and laughter as their love grew. They married on October 22, 1994, at St. Stanislaus Kostka Church in Winona. Joe provided her with the love, devotion, and support that she always deserved. He always had the fridge stocked with her favorites, pickled herring and smoked carp! It was very rare for them to miss a Friday night Fish Fry in Utica or a Sunday lunch date at Kingdom Buffet. Joe remained the love of her life and her constant companion until the very end.

Ruth’s heart overflowed with joy when she became a great-grandmother to Rylee Larson (2010) and Porter Larson (2014).

Ruth’s hands were always busy with something meaningful—whether sewing/patching clothes for her children or mending garments for others in the community. Her creativity and care left a lasting mark on all who knew her. She loved spending time with her family and was happiest in the role of grandmother and great-grandmother, which she cherished deeply. Ruth also enjoyed the occasional Bloody Mary or Margarita, often paired with good conversation and laughter.

Ruth is survived by her devoted husband, Joe; her brothers Paul and Bud Smith; her sisters Judy Dickson, LaVonne Selden, and Diannia (LeRoy) Scherbring; her beloved children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers Melvin, Robert, and Leon; and her grandson, Mitchell Averbeck.

In accordance with Ruth’s wishes, she will be cremated. A viewing will be held at the Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home, 376 E. Sarnia St., Winona, on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, from 5 PM to 7 PM, where a Prayer Service will be held at 6:45 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 AM on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka in Winona. The Very Reverend Patrick Arens will officiate. A luncheon will be held immediately after the Mass in the church basement, followed by burial at the Chatfield Cemetery. There will not be any visitation held on Wednesday – please meet at the Basilica for the Mass.

Ruth’s kindness, strength, and joyful spirit will be remembered always by those who were fortunate enough to love and be loved by her.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Ruth’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.