RUTH DEBBIE RAVE

RUTH DEBBIE RAVE

     Ruth Debbie Rave, Ahu Gipara Wį (Spreading of the Wings), of the Thunder Clan passed away Nov. 16, 2024, surrounded by family, at Gundersen Medical Center in La Crosse.

     She was born May 28, 1951, to Lawrence and Ellen Rose Snowball in Black River Falls. She was the oldest (Hinu) of 12 children; she was like a second mom to her siblings. She attended Winnebago Misson School and Black River Falls High School before attending beauty school in Eau Claire. She worked as a teacher at the HeadStart Program. She lived the traditional way of life.

     Ruth was united in marriage to Reuben Rave Sr. at Mission Church and lived a cherished life together. They raised six children together.

     Ruth always had a positive attitude, was mentally and physically strong, could make anyone laugh and was very family orientated. She enjoyed sewing and nights at the casino. She loved finding new treasures at garage sales and rummage sales. She loved gardening and loved birds. She liked cooking and baking for her family. 

     She is preceded in death by her husband, Reuben Sr.; her parents; son Niles; siblings Lawrence Travis, Laura Lee and Susan Ann. 

     Ruth is survived by her children, Reuben Jr., Meredith, Stuart (Diane), Nathan, Erica and adopted daughter Erin Emerson; siblings Harlan Calvin (Margo), David, George, Pamela, Tara (Curtis) Tindall, Minette (Wayne), Eileen and Melanie; grandchildren Whitney Sanchez, Eli Rave, Reuben Rave III, Noah Rave, Robert Rave, Ellyn Roy, Natalie Rave, Nigel Rave, Aralyn Whiteeagle and Keira Small; great-grandchildren Aerius Rave, Royal Rave and Gianna Rave; and aunt Millie Decorah. 

     The funeral service for Ruth was held at 12 p.m. at the District 1 Community Center Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024, with Wilfred Cleveland officiating. A visitation was held from 10 a.m. until time of the service. Burial took place in Decorah Cemetery.