Ruthann Klooz

Ruthann Klooz, age 87, of McCook, NE passed away at her home near McCook on December 23, 2021.

Ruthann was born December 12, 1934 to Martin and Pearl (Longsine) Lennemann in Alma, NE. During her early childhood the family moved to rural McCook, where she attended and graduated from Red Willow High School in 1952. Ruthann continued her studies at the University of Nebraska and graduated in 1956, with a Bachelors of Science in Dietetics.

She married Marvin Klooz at the St. Patrick's Catholic church in McCook on July 21, 1956; and to this union two daughters were born. The couple made their home in the McCook area finally moving to the family farm in 1974. Ruthann was a member of the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church and a devout Christian.

During her teaching career, she taught school at Red Willow High School, Culbertson High School, and McCook Junior and Senior High School. Her passion for teaching continued after retirement when she and her husband planted a 15-acre apple orchard and garden. She led numerous field trips for local schools and families and taught about the importance of gardening. Ruthann utilized fruits and vegetables from the garden developing her own jellies, jams, and relish recipes, which she marketed statewide. She shared this knowledge with to her daughters, passing on gifts to the next generation.

Ruthann was an accomplished seamstress and on several occasions was awarded the Red Willow County Fair 4H Grand Champion of the dress review. She also designed and sewed her daughter’s wedding dress. In addition, she sewed numerous bridesmaid dresses for several family weddings.

She was a loving and patient grandmother who devoted much of her time to her grandchildren, passing on experience as well as many important values and traditions. Her kindness and compassion towards her family and others will always be remembered.

Ruthann was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter Kathy Matson; one brother Richard Lennemann; and a brother-in-law Stewart Corns.

Ruthann is survived by her husband Marvin Klooz of McCook, NE; daughter Dr. Karen Hunter of McCook, NE; sister Dorothy Corns of Council Bluffs, IA; son-in-law Gary Matson of Denver, CO; grandchildren Logan Hunter (Hannah) of Little Rock, AR; Austin Hunter (Jordan) of Trenton NE; Valerie Loghry of Trenton, NE; and Julia Matson, Denise Matson, David Matson and Sam Matson all of Omaha. Also surviving are numerous great grandchildren, extended family, and friends.