Ruby Waltner

Ruby Waltner, 94, of Freeman passed away on June 28th at the Freeman Hospital. Celebration of Life Services will be held at 11 am on Saturday, August 9th, at the Salem Zion Mennonite Church of rural Freeman. Visitation will be from 5-7 pm on Friday, August 8th at the Walter's Funeral Home in Freeman. Memorials will be given to Freeman Academy.

To Livestream the service click on the following link:   https://www.youtube.com/live/O8GFeJI8YM8

Ruby Jean (Tieszen) Waltner began her eternal life on June 28, 2025 at Freeman Regional Hospital at the age of 94. Ruby was born April 17, 1931 in Marion, SD to Dr. Isaac P. and Katie (Graber) Tieszen. She was the youngest of seven siblings (Ewalt Tieszen, Lillian Glanzer, Albert Tieszen, Selma Hieb, Delsie Bartel, and Helen Tieszen). She grew up in Marion, SD, attended Marion High School and graduated in 1949. Further education took her to Freeman Jr. College for her A.A. degree graduating in 1951. In 1980, at the age of 50, she received her LPN license and worked at Freeman Regional Hospital until retirement.

Ruby was baptized on September 8, 1946 at Salem-Zion Mennonite Church, Freeman, SD, where she held church membership until her passing.

On April 26, 1952, she married Donald W. Waltner at Salem-Zion Mennonite Church and together they farmed near Marion, SD. Many cherished memories occurred on this farm for their three daughters, their spouses, grandchildren and extended family and friends.

Ruby’s passions included playing the pipe organ at church from age 12-92, knitting many beautiful creations, reading and entertaining family and friends. Classical music and watching various sports teams were also special interests she shared with Don.

Born to this marriage: Joan Marie Wasser (David) of Manhattan, KS, Carol Ann Penner (David) of Fresno, CA and Lisbeth Jean Graber (Warren) of Sioux Falls, SD.

Grandchildren: Mark Waltner Wasser (Asia), Kristina Marie Graber, Lisa Yong-nan Penner (Matt Friesen), Ryan Michael Graber and Andrew Yong-jin Penner (Jennifer).

Great-grandchildren: Kalae Wasser, Ruby Penner and Lincoln Penner.

Ruby is survived by her three daughters and their spouses, four grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and sister Helen Tieszen of Sioux Falls, SD. Her memory also lives on with many nieces, nephews and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, five siblings, husband Don Waltner (2012) and grandchild Lisa Yong-nan Penner (2024).