Theresa "Jean" (Fletcher) Ruddy, 70, of Rochester, passed away on Nov. 1, 2016.

Jean was born on May 14, 1946 in Breckenridge, MN.  Upon graduation from Breckenridge HS, she attended North Dakota State College of Science graduating as a Licensed Practical Nurse.  Initially using her education to support a career in the medical field, Jean's supportive role as a military spouse spurred a number of career transitions associated with relocations state-side and overseas.  The one constant was that regardless of role, she was a hardworking, selfless, and compassionate "giver."  These qualities complimented by her medical training promoted what she felt to be a "calling" to provide end of life care and companionship to those nearing life's end.  Many can attest to her special gift in such trying times, but only those closest to her knew the personal heartache that she accepted in answering her call because of her open and loving heart.

Through the years, many would benefit from her creative and artistic talents.  In fact, she was an award winning seamstress.  Jean loved to travel and camp, spending time with family and friends from the west coast to the east coast and many points in between.  Her time as a member of the Red Hat Society always brought her happiness; however, her true joy was in fishing.  Sometimes, she caught dinner; however, often times it was just the appetizer.  Regardless, her best days were on a dock or a boat with a fishing pole in her hand.

A cherished wife and mother, a friend to others and just "Jean" to all so many; she maintained that, "Many people have impacted my life – None with the intensity of God's love!"

Jean leaves behind her husband Myron Spivack; her children Patrick Ruddy (Chrissie) and Carrie Muldoon (Brian); step children Mark Spivack (Susan); Elizabeth Stobbe (Gord), Julie Wynne (Terry) and Jenny Spivack;  20 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren; her sister Brenda Fletcher and cherished friends.  She was preceded in death by her parents Clair and Ellen (Lund) Fletcher, her sisters Joyce Fuder, Betty Baker, Anna "Annie" Fletcher, and Elnor "Toots" Conzemius.

Memorial services are being held in Macken Funeral Home's River Park Chapel (1119 11 1/2  Street SE, Rochester, MN 55904)  on Saturday, November 12, 2016 at 11:00am. Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service at the chapel.

In remembrance of Jean and the extraordinary care that she received over the years, in lieu of flowers donations can be made to the May Clinic: https://philanthropy.mayoclinic.org/donatemc

Macken Funeral Home of Rochester, MN is handling the arrangements and online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com