Ruth Ida Massingham

Ruth Ida Massingham, age 75, of Litchfield, MN, passed away on December 22, 2025. A funeral service will be held at First Lutheran Church in Litchfield, MN, on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at 11:00 AM. A visitation will be held on December 29, 2025, from 4:00 - 7:00 PM at Johnson-Hagglund Funeral Home and will continue one hour prior to the service at church. Interment will be at Ripley Cemetery in Litchfield, MN. 

Ruth Ida Massingham was born on March 19, 1950, to Ervin and Eliza (Mahlstedt) Haag in Cokato, MN. She received her education in Howard Lake, MN, and graduated as a member of the Class of 1968. Ruth then went on to further her education and earned a degree in nursing. On May 1, 1971, Ruth wed her husband William Massingham at St James Lutheran Church in Howard Lake, MN. Ruth dedicated her life to healthcare, working for 34 years as a nurse at Meeker Memorial Hospital. She also served as a home health nurse for 6 years. Ruth was a member of the Litchfield Rescue Squad for 12 years and worked for the Meeker County Ambulance service for 25 years. Additionally, Ruth worked as a deputy coroner for several years, making a lasting impact on her community through her service and dedication. Outside of her career, Ruth had many passions. 

She cherished her flower garden and could often be found in her yard, tending to the vibrant beds of flowers during sunny summer days. Ruth had a special fondness for Easter bunnies and Christmas lights, each symbolizing the beauty and joy she brought to those around her. Ruth loved to spend time reading a good book, working on her diamond dot projects or playing mahjong. Above all, Ruth adored her grandchildren and her dog, Snickers, and loved spending time with them, playing and making memories that will be treasured forever. 

Ruth is survived by her children Michael (Renee) Massingham and their children Paige, Elizabeth, and Cody; Melanie (Matt) Chrast and their children Dylan and Seth; Brian (Renee) Massingham and their children Hayley, Josh, Carter, and Tyler; sisters Bea Buttenhoff, Evelyn (Dale) Schmieg, and Karen (Merlin) Schmieg; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

She is preceded in death by her husband William, parents Ervin & Eliza, brother-in-law Melvin Buttenhoff; nephew Ricky Schmieg and niece Connie Baumann.