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Lillian Ruth Magedanz • 1911 - 2003 Lillian Ruth Magedanz, 92, Bowbells, died Friday, September 19, 2003, in the Kenmare Hospital. Ruth was born January 30, 1911, in Westmoreland, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Kinney and Minerva (Baker) Stephens. She graduated from high school in Indiana, and attended Syracuse University, where she earned her Master's degree in music. She taught at Westmar College where she met Harold Magedanz. On October 9, 1948, she married Harold Magedanz at the Little Brown Church in the Vale in Iowa. Following their marriage they returned to the family farm near Bowbells where they farmed with Harold's father. Later they moved into Bowbells where they lived for many years. Ruth entered the Kenmare Skilled Care Unit and resided there until her death. Harold died August 11, 1998. Ruth taught music for a number of years in Bowbells and other area schools. She served as Burke County Superintendent of Schools until she retired. Ruth was a member of United Methodist Church in Bowbells where she was church organist for many years. She was also organist at Evangelical United Brethren Church and the Presbyterian Church, both in Bowbells. Ruth played for many weddings and funerals over the years. She gave piano and voice lessons for a number of years and directed many community Easter and Christmas cantatas. Survivors: Nephews, , Charles Wesley, Jr. (Gloria A.) Robinson, New Town Square, PA; James Kinney (Deanna) Robinson, Allentown, PA; niece, Charlotte R. Crosby, Suwanee, GA; 13 great nieces and nephews and several cousins; special friends, Gary and Rosalie Melby, Bowbells, Kevin and Brook, Paige and Noah, Kyle, Kirkland and Kyler. Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Harold; her parents; sister and brother-in-law, Mae and Charles Wesley Robinson. Funeral: Wednesday, September 24, 2003, at 2:00 p.m. at United Methodist Church, Bowbells, ND. Visitation: Wednesday, September 24, 2003, from noon to 2:00 p.m., at United Methodist Church, Bowbells. Burial: Bowbells Community Cemetery, Bowbells, ND. Officiant: Rev. Janine Barber, Pastor at United Methodist Church, Mohall, ND Scripture Readings: Psalm 23 and John 14:1-6, 27 Music: Faye Sundin, Grace Melby and Ardyce Nordstog,
trio, "Gone To The Glory Land" Honorary Bearers: Ruth's family, friends and neighbors Active Bearers: Jeff Johnson, Kevin Melby, Kyle Melby, Jerry Melby, Greg Melby, Mark Peterson |