Ruth Elaine Novotny, 96, of West Fargo, ND passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at HIA - Heather's House, Fargo, ND.

Ruth was born on June 18, 1929, in Lidgerwood, ND to Albert and Anna (Hendricks) Tuma. She grew up on the family farm just south of Lidgerwood and graduated from Lidgerwood High School.

On June 15, 1948, Ruth married Ernest Novotny after he returned from his service in the U.S. Navy. Ernie started his own electric company, Ernie’s Electric, which Ruth helped run. They later added septic work and trenching to the business. In the following years they opened Ernie’s Laundromat and E&R Trailer Court in Lidgerwood. They enjoyed spending time at their lake cabin on Elsie Lake, near Hankinson, ND. Ernie passed away in September of 2005.

Ruth had many hobbies and was involved in several groups throughout her 96 years. From Craft Club to Homemakers and Happy Red Hatters to Camera Club and bowling. She was active in the Lidgerwood American Legion Auxiliary and volunteered at the Lidgerwood Senior Center. She loved to sew and quilt and performed alterations for wedding gowns and prom dresses well into her 90’s.

In the summer of 2019, Ruth moved to an apartment in West Fargo to be closer to family where she quickly gained popularity for her seamstress skills. She will be missed by all who knew her.

Ruth is survived by her daughters, Deborah Trapp, and Diane (Greg) Laffen; grandchildren, Scott Trapp, Jamie (Scot) McDonald, Brandon Trapp, Nickolas (Kristi) Laffen, Melissa (Brock) Holum; and great-grandchildren, Josh, David, Nick, Grayson, and Kate.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, sister, Marcella (Joseph) Lahren, and son-in-law, James Trapp.

Memorials are preferred to HIA Hospice Heather's House, Fargo, ND.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. with a visitation one hour before the service at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Moorhead, MN with lunch to follow.

Burial will be in Bohemian Cemetery, Lidgerwood, ND.