Ruth was born October 15, 1926, in Patent Gate Township to Torvald and Anna Bertinuson, the youngest of eight children.

The Timber Creek Lutheran Church stood atop a hill one mile south of their home and it was there she was baptized and received her first Sunday school training, the beginning of a deep and abiding faith.

She attended the Patent State Country school through the seventh grade, her teacher the last two years being her sister, Theresa. Because of the school closing there, she finished the eighth grade in Watford City, where she stayed with her sister, Evelyn Sanford.

She was confirmed in 1942 at First Lutheran Church in Watford City and graduated from Watford City High school in 1944. In 1945 she married Arkjer Rolfson, and they began their married life on their farm northeast of Watford City, living there together for fifty-nine years. Arkjer died in 2004.

She was an active member of her community belonging to the Garden Lutheran Church and its Ladies Aid and teaching Sunday School, a Homemakers Club, American Legion Aux., McKenzie County Hospital Aux, Watford City Woman’s Club, Fifty Years in the Saddle, Sons of Norway, the Heritage Choir, and one of the most rewarding, as a 4-H leader for several years.

An avid reader, she especially enjoyed books with a historical background. World events and places fascinated her, and she enjoyed being able to visit many of them, always with a spirit of adventure.
She enjoyed working in her yard and many flower gardens. When asked what her favorite flower was, she couldn’t decide – “I love them all”.

As a daughter of immigrant parents who became Homesteaders, at an early age she was taught to value what this country has given to so many.

She and Arkjer enjoyed rearing their three children and in turn watching their eleven grandchildren grow up. Sixteen great grandchildren joined the family circle.

She passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Oct. 3 at the Good Shepherd Home in Watford City.