Ruth King Dunklau, 89, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 20, 2018, at her residence in Fremont, Nebraska.She led an active, rewarding life grounded in deep religious beliefs, charity and friendship.

Ruth's life was graced by membership in the Covenant and, later Lutheran churches.Reading of biblical scripture and prayer were elemental parts of her life.

Charitable giving was a high priority for Ruth, especially in her later years.Her late husband Rupert Dunklau donated generously to many charities, and Ruth carried on this tradition with contributions to organizations, especially the Fremont Family YMCA Foundation, Concordia University and Lutheran Family Services in Fremont.

Ruth was born on March 16, 1929 in Lubbock, Texas to Lon and Gertrude Woodrum.As a daughter to a nationally renowned evangelical minister, Ruth travelled the U.S. extensively with her family before settling in California.She attended Mark Keppel High School in Alhambra and Pasadena City College.

For upwards of two decades, Ruth pursued a highly successful executive career in retail apparel.She began as a manager of a small apparel shop for women and ultimately became a store director for both the Joseph Magnin and Mervyn's retail chains.

Ruth was preceded in death by her husband Rupert Dunklau, brother Paul Woodrum, Thomas King, and her parents.

Survivors include: David (Mary) Rose of Gaithersburg, Maryland and Lon (Michele) of Eagle, Idaho, sons from her marriage to Walter Rose; grandchild Steven Rose (Jacqueline); step-great grandson, Aristan; stepdaughter from her marriage to Thomas King, Diane Sherlock; half-brothers Riley and Robin Woodrum; step-son Paul Dunklau (Diana); step-daughter Janet Love (Jack); and many other relatives and friends.

In all, Ruth was a loving, thoughtful mother, wife, friend and career professional beloved by many.


The family would like to thank the caregivers who provided wonderful care and support to Ruth during her final years.

Memorials may be given to: Trinity Lutheran School, LFS Rupert Dunklau for Health Families (Fremont), Midland University, and the Fremont Health Foundation.

Visitation will be from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 27, 2018 at Dugan Funeral Chapel in Fremont.The family will be present from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

The funeral will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, September 28, 2018 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Fremont.Pastor Dan Heuer will be officiating. Burial will take place at Memorial Cemetery.