Ellen "Ruth" Dilts

Ellen "Ruth" Dilts, age 93, passed away October 9, 2024. She was born March 7, 1931 to Rozzel and Edna (McIntosh) Mahan in Wewela, South Dakota. She married Clifford Dilts on March 11, 1948. Her dedication to youth and education was evident through her involvement with the Boy Scouts, Skylarks, 4-H, and her role as President of the PTA during her children's school years. Her faith and love of God guided her through life's challenges which was evident to all who knew her. She was very active in her church and proud to be a member of the Peanut Brittle brigade. She brought joy to many through her cooking and was always ready to welcome employees, neighbors, friends and family to the table. She enjoyed her hobbies; bowling, selling Avon, tinkering in her flower garden and being a Mother and Grandmother. But in her later life her china painting took front and center row. Ruth actively participated in the Brush and Pallet Club. She went to seminars, hosted them at her shop, as well as teaching classes, enjoying time with others that shared her passion. Very rarely did she keep any of her masterpieces, but willingly gave them to family and friends. Above all else, she loved her family and watching it grow, especially the little ones. Her unwavering support and devotion for them never ceased. Ruth's life was a testament to the power of faith, love and determination. Her impact will be felt for generations to come.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by husband, Clifford; son-in-laws, Paul Gustafson and Thomas Collins; grandson, Jason Gunderson; brothers and sisters, Ella Mae Henderson, Rozzel Mahan Jr., Letha Finley, Kenneth Mahan, Alta Ramsey.

Ruth is survived by her children, Linda Collins, Christina (Frank) Gunderson, Susan Gustafson, Karen Hander, Evelyn (Bill) Rock, C. Dale (Melissa) Dilts, Donald (Lorrie) Dilts; 18 grandchildren; 45 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews and a host of other family and friends.

Visitation will be 3:00- 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 13, 2024 at Hoy Kilnoski Funeral Home.

Funeral Service will be Monday at 11:00 a.m. at Community of Christ Church. Memorials are suggested to Madonna Rehabilitation Center, Community of Christ Church or AseraCare Hospice.