Ruth Ollila

Ollila, Ruth M. age 84 of Fridley. Ruth was born at home in Kingston Township to Alfred and Emma Pousi. She attended Litchfield High School and Augsburg College in 1954 with a degree in elementary education.
After marrying Douglas Ollila in 1954 the couple moved to West Barnstable, MA where Douglas pastored in a parish there. Ruth earned her Master's Degree at Bridgewater State University with additional coursework at the University of Minnesota.
Ruth taught Special Education at Fridley Middle School until her retirement at age 62. Additionally, Ruth was trained as a group facilitator and volunteered at various groups in the Twin Cities. She enjoyed spending time at the family cabin, swimming and enjoyed the traditional Finnish Sauna.
Ruth joined St. Phillips Lutheran Church and sang in the church choir.
She lived in Fridley from 1966 until 2014 when she moved to the St. Anthony Healthcare facility until her passing.
Ruth survived two separate bouts with cancer in the 1990s and was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in her later years.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Rev. Dr. Douglas Ollila, Jr.; siblings, Ellen Raatikka, Evert Pousi, Martha Ahola, Hilja Karvonen. Survived by sons, Stephen, Cameron (Rhonda); grandchildren, Nicholas & Jennifer; many other relatives and friends. Memorial service Saturday, 11 AM with visitation one hour prior at Miller Funeral Home, 6210 Hwy 65 NE, Fridley 763-571-1300. Interment Sunset Cemetery, Mpls. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred.
www.millerfuneralfridley.com