Ruth G. (Wicklund) Beam

Champlin - Age 90. Passed away peacefully on December 12, 2025 after a brave battle with Alzheimer's disease. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. 

Preceded in death by husband Charles (Chuck) and brother Jon Wicklund. Survived by her brother Robert (Lynne) and 3 children, Todd (Debbie), John (Marilyn), Stefanie (Mark). 7 beloved grandchildren, Alyssa (Andy), Caitlyn (Anders), Taylor, Ryan, Hannah, Rachel, and Sarah. Ruth is also survived by her cherished god child, Susan (Edward) Anderson.

Born on February 12, 1935 in Minneapolis, the daughter of Marwin and Mina Wicklund. Ruth grew up in North Minneapolis and Robbinsdale. A proud graduate of Robbinsdale High School and the University of Minnesota with Bachelor's Degree in Education. 

Directly after graduating college, Ruth moved to California to teach primary school for 2 years. She then returned to Minnesota where she ultimately met and married her husband of 55 years, Charles. After they married, they moved to Nebraska and started their family together. Living in Nebraska and marrying into a large Nebraska family she did become a Cornhusker fan but she always remaining true to her beloved Golden Gophers. 

Once her children were all in school, Ruth completed a master's degree in Education from the University of Nebraska and then returned to the classroom to teach. Ruth held teacher and/or substitute teaching positions in Nebraska (Lincoln), Illinois (Galesburg), and Tennessee (Memphis). Ruth was a life-long supporter of education. For over 40 years she was a member of PEO - an organization whose purpose is to help women advance through education. She continued her teaching in retirement by volunteering in organizations such as Rocking Readers.

For hobbies, Ruth enjoyed golf with a dedicated group of friends, senior community exercise programs and reading. She was a loyal fan of both the Minnesota Twins and Minnesota Wild. Her biggest passion, however, was her family and particularly being a big part of each of her 7 grandchildren's lives. She loved attending all the school functions, concerts, sporting events, family outings and vacations.

Ruth's wishes were for no formal service, but instead for people to share a smile and hug with a loved one. A celebration of life will be held by the family at a future date. She will be buried with her husband, Charles, at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the PBS Foundation.