Carol Ruud, age 79, passed away on Friday, July 19, 2024, at North Central Kansas Medical Center, Concordia, Kansas. She was born on December 24, 1944, in Fairbury, Nebraska, to Kermit “Mutt” I. and Edna Lucille (Kephart) Menzies.
She graduated from Concordia High School in 1963 and received her bachelor’s degree from Emporia State Teachers College and later her master’s degree from Kansas State University. She married Jerry Ruud on July 22, 1967, in Concordia. They later divorced. During the early years of their marriage, they moved several times and built many friendships. Their homes included Oelwein, Iowa, where Brian and Stacy were born, Omaha, Nebraska, Rock Rapids, Iowa, where Brandon was born, Rock Valley, IA, and in 1983 they returned to Concordia.
Carol taught in the Concordia elementary school for 23 years and was beloved by her students and their families.
She was an active and giving member of the Concordia community. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church and the United Methodist Women, where she assisted for several years with funeral luncheons and a host of other activities. She belonged to the American Legion Auxiliary as well as the hospital auxiliary. She led 4-H, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and taught Sunday School. After her kids were grown, she served as a Big Sister for many years.
She was a longtime bridge player, and while living in Iowa, belonged to golf and bowling leagues, never letting much ‘grass grow under her feet’. She will be remembered for her warm hugs, willingness to lend a helping hand, and for welcoming all to a seat at her table.
Carol found joy in motherhood and had a special connection with each of her grandchildren. She is survived by her children Brian Ruud (LeLe) and their children, Brooklynn and Ethan, Flowood, Mississippi; Stacy Mowry (Craig), New Strawn and their children, Luke (Chloe Austin), Newcastle, Wyoming, and Linnea, Augusta, Georgia; Brandon Ruud (Deana) and their children, Sydney and Tyson, Basehor; sister, Marylu Fellows (John), Concordia; brother-in-law, Wayne Ruud, Concordia; nephew, Jeremy Beems (Stacey Forshee), Concordia, and his children Landon and Laikyn; niece, Jill Billinger (Joe), Victoria, and their children, Dylan, Zack and Garret; bonus sister, Janice Swenson, Concordia; dear neighbors and friends that were like family to her.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Kermit and Lucille Menzies.
Visitation will be held from 1-8 p.m. Tuesday, July 23, 2024, with the family greeting friends from 6-7 p.m. at Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home, Concordia.
Cremation has taken place and a Memorial Service will be held 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, July 24, 2024, at the First United Methodist Church, Concordia, Kansas, with Pastor Mark Crist officiating. Burial will follow the services at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Concordia.
Memorial Contributions may be given to the First United Methodist Church, Concordia in c/o Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home, Concordia. For online Condolences, please visit www.chaputbuoy.com.
