Betty Ruth Ross

Betty Ruth Ross, age 93 of Belle Plaine, passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025. Per Betty’s request, no services are planned at this time.

She was born in Tracy, Minnesota on January 6, 1932, to Roger and Madeline (Drumm) Knowles. She grew up in Tracy and graduated from Tracy High School. She married Richard “Dick” Ross on July 3, 1954, in San Francisco, California. They lived in St. Peter for many years. They later moved to California. They returned to Minnesota in 2013 and settled in Belle Plaine.

Betty enjoyed being part of her card group, volunteering, and theater. She was always welcoming new neighbors. She had many friendships, young and old, and kept in contact with many of her coworkers.

Mom was a strong woman, and we always admired her ability to cope with all that life threw at her. We are very proud of the way she took care of our dad as he progressed through Alzheimer’s. Her love and dedication never faltered. Visiting her was an adventure. She enjoyed visiting thrift stores and always seemed to find exactly what she was looking for. Mom always had some homemade goodies to share. She was quick to make friends and enjoyed sharing her love of baking with everyone. We always found it impressive that she figured out how to take a photo and upload it to Facebook. She enjoyed sharing photos of her dolls and their new outfits she had sewn by hand. Mom could find a use for even the smallest scrap of fabric.

Although she lived in another state, mom was an important influence in her grandchildren’s lives. All of the grandchildren have fond memories of time spent with grandma. Taking walks through the neighborhood was a favorite past time. Her cooking and homemade bread was a special treat. We are saddened that she never got to meet her 5th great-grandchild. He will know her love through the baby quilts she made for him.

She is preceded in death by her parents and husband Dick in 2015.

Betty is survived by her children, Lynn Ross of Saint Paul, Lee (Pat) Sexe of Belle Plaine, Julie (Richard) Jurek of The Colony, TX and Jon Ross of Denton, TX. Grandchildren, Ryan Sexe, Kristina Sexe, Madeline Jurek, Andrew Jurek and Jon Austin Ross. Great Grandchildren, Addi, Leo, Madden, Cal, and Arthur.