Ruth Doreen Painter Henrikson passed away peacefully in her sleep at home on June 1, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
Ruth was born on September 13, 1951, in Belle Fourche, South Dakota, to Preston Elmer Painter and Marion Josephine Cranston Painter. She was one of nine children and spent her childhood on the family ranch in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota.
As a young girl, Ruth loved the outdoors and the excitement of ranch life. She shared a special bond with her father, Preston, and often preferred being outside alongside her brothers rather than indoors helping with household chores. Yet despite her love for ranch work, she developed exceptional cooking skills and earned a Betty Crocker Award in her youth, reflecting a talent she would continue to share throughout her life.
Ruth valued education and lifelong learning. She attended Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, and Chadron State College in Nebraska, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Art and Mathematics as well as her teaching credentials.
On March 6, 1976, Ruth married Lee Howard Henrikson. Together they built a home centered on family, learning, faith, and service.
Ruth taught at Ben Lomond High School in Ogden, Utah, for more than twenty years. She taught art, ceramics, and mathematics, inspiring countless students through her creativity, patience, and dedication. She was never afraid of hard work and often went the extra mile to provide for her family, including babysitting, delivering newspaper routes, and tutoring students.
Ruth found joy in creating beauty and bringing people together. She loved gardening, ceramics, painting, sewing, cooking, and playing the piano. Family gatherings on her back porch became treasured traditions where food, conversation, laughter, and connection were always plentiful.
A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Ruth especially loved serving in Primary. She had a gift for connecting with children through songs, stories, rhymes, and lullabies that brought comfort, laughter, and joy.
Ruth was known for her kindness, her genuine interest in others, and her warm, welcoming smile. She had a remarkable ability to make people feel seen and valued. Whether sharing a story, singing a familiar song, offering encouragement, or simply listening, she touched the lives of many.
Ruth is survived by her husband, Lee Howard Henrikson; her seven children, Carolyn, Elizabeth, Lee Erik, Ashlee, Katie, Aimee, and Clark; 14 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and many extended family members and friends.
She was welcomed home by her Heavenly Father and reunited with beloved family members who preceded her in death.
~Many family & friends have asked how they can help. In lieu of flowers, donations toward funeral and memorial expenses may be made through Venmo at @Carolyn-Done. Any support is deeply appreciated.