Ruby Dorothy Nelson, 96, of Watertown, was taken to her Savior's side on Friday morning, November 2, 2018.

She was born on December 25, 1921 in the town of How, Oconto County, Wisconsin, the youngest child of Alvin and Henrietta (Yakel) Schuettpelz. On June 20, 1943, Ruby married Edward John Nelson. The two were blessed with 75 years of marriage. E. John preceded Ruby in death on July 7, 2018.

Ruby was a loving wife, mother, and homemaker, raising 8 children and 2 foster children. She was an active member of her church and also very active with the ARC and at Bethesda. In 1991, the family was named the International Special Olympics Family of the Year. Ruby was a hard worker and always ready to help anyone in need.

Surviving Ruby are five sons, Jon (Shirley), Paul (Susie), David (Nancy), Joel, and Tim. She is further survived by her brother Marion "Bud" Schuettpelz, 11 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and other relatives and friends. Four children preceded Ruby in death, Steven, Mark (Jan), Gail, and Beth, who died in infancy.

Funeral services for Ruby will be held on Thursday, November 8th, 2018 at 4:00 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church in Watertown with Rev. Seth Hoeppner officiating. Family and friends may gather at the church on Thursday from 2:00 p.m. until the time of the service. A funeral service will also be held on Saturday, November 10, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. at Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Suring, WI with Rev. Seth Hoeppner and Rev. Michael Paholke officiating. Family and friends may gather at the church from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will be in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Suring.

Hafemeister Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Watertown and Gruetzmacher Funeral Home of Suring are serving the family. Online condolences may be made at www.hafemeisterfh.com.

Published in Green Bay Press-Gazette on Nov. 6, 2018