Ruth A. Shortenhaus

Ruth Ann Shortenhaus, 95, of Sioux City passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 24, 2025, at Westwood Specialty Care.

Ruth was born April 14, 1930, in Sheldon, Iowa, the daughter of Lloyd and Marie Oester. She grew up in Ritter, Iowa, and graduated from Sheldon High School. In her early 20s, Ruth worked as a switchboard operator for the local telephone company, a job that suited her friendly nature.

In 1951, she married the love of her life, Leon Shortenhaus, in Sheldon, Iowa. Five years later, they moved to Burbank, California for 12 years where their sons were born. In 1967, the family returned to Iowa, settling first in Fort Dodge and then making Sioux City their home in 1969. From the late 1970’s through the mid-1980’s Ruth worked as an office secretary at Sioux City East High School, a role she cherished as it allowed her to support the school and keep a watchful eye on her boys.

Faith and family were central in Ruth’s life. She was a long-time member of Grace United Methodist Church in Morningside. She and Leon loved traveling together, spending summers in Okoboji, and winters in Mesa, Arizona, where they enjoyed time with her siblings and making new friends. Ruth especially treasured time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Those who knew Ruth will remember her not only for her devotion to family but also for her sharp mind and quick wit, which she carried with her into her later years. Even in her final days, she was known for her humor, warmth, and the sparkle in her eye that could light up a room.

Ruth is survived by her three sons: Dan Shortenhaus and his wife, Alicia Klein, of San Luis Obispo, California; Joe Shortenhaus and his wife, Darla, of Sioux City, Iowa; and Ron Shortenhaus and his wife, Holly, of West Des Moines, Iowa. She is also survived by five grandchildren, Erik and his wife, Sarah, Jeremiah, Landon, Drew, and Emma Shortenhaus; four step-granddaughters, Melissa, Brianna, Nicole, and Mackenzie; and five great-grandchildren, Caroline, Lou, Quinn, Cecelia, and Flynn.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Leon; her brothers, Lee, and Ken; her sister, Helen; and her grandson, David.

Memorials may be made in her name to Grace United Methodist Church.