Ruth Ida Petersen

Ruth Ida Petersen, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2026, in St. George, Utah, at the age of 96, with members of her family by her side.

Ruth was born on February 18, 1930, in San Francisco, California, to Richard and Maria Remmele. She was the second of ten children.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Klyde L. Petersen; her parents; her sisters, Marlene E. Petersen and Margaret H. Steinkoph; and her brothers, Richard L. Remmele and Ralph H. Remmele. She is survived by her three sons, Larry, Dennis, and Rodney Blackner; fourteen stepchildren; and more grandchildren and great-grandchildren than could easily be counted. Her greatest joy in life was her family, and she cherished every opportunity to spend time with them.

Ruth devoted much of her life to caring for others. During her early years in Northern California, she worked as a switchboard operator. She married Louis A Blackner on November 3, 1950. As her children grew older, she began a career in Palm Springs, first working in a veterinary office before serving for many years as a medical assistant for two physicians. She concluded her professional career in Paso Robles, California, where she worked in a dental office.

Faith was a guiding influence in Ruth’s life. After retirement, she and her husband, Klyde, served as FamilySearch missionaries for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- day Saints. Together, they helped countless individuals discover their family history, connect with their ancestors, and strengthen family relationships across generations.

Ruth had a gift for making people feel loved. She especially enjoyed gardening, canning and cooking and delighted in sharing these with others. Her pomegranate jelly was exceptional. After moving to Sterling Court, she became affectionately known as “The Fudge Lady”. During her first couple of years there, she regularly made fresh homemade fudge once or twice each week, generously sharing it with residents and staff. Her sweet treats, along with her warm smile and generous heart, brought joy to many.

Ruth will be remembered for her unwavering love of family, her quiet service to others, her love of games, her strong faith, and her generous spirit. Her example of kindness, devotion, and selfless service leaves a lasting legacy for all who knew and loved her.

An interment service will be at Tonaquint Cemetery at 11:00am Saturday, August 15, 2026. It will be followed by Celebration of Life at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 259 North Mall Drive, St. George, Utah around noon.