Jean Ruth Harrington

Jean Ruth Harrington, 95, of Red Wing, died Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2020 at her home at the Benedictine Villa.  She was born June 24, 1925, in Red Wing, to Fred and Josephine (Hendel) Saupe and graduated from Red Wing Central High School.  She met her husband, Chuck, while out with friends at Andy’s Bar, when a handsome service man walked through the door.  The two were married on June 28, 1948 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.  She worked as an accountant for Fredrick and Kemp prior to having her two children.  Once her children were school-aged, she began working in the school cafeteria, and her love for cooking and baking blossomed.  She later worked for Goodhue County as a county clerk until her retirement.  Jean was a part of the bowling league at Nybo’s and she was also involved in several card clubs, even infiltrating the Catholic card club even though she was Presbyterian.  She was a life-long member of First Presbyterian Church, serving as a deacon and Sunday school teacher.  Growing up, she learned to sew, and made clothing for her sisters, friends and later, her own children.  Her sewing talents lead her to quilt making and she was able to make and give away numerous quilts.  Jean was a generous and caring woman, especially to those in need, she was there to help.

She is survived by her children, Sandra (Scott) Bendict of Bethel Island, Calif. and Bob (Wyla) of Maple Grove; grandchildren, Carrie Miller, Bill (Ashley) O’Connor, Mackenzie & Jackson Harrington; great-grandchildren, Chloe, Violet & Carolyn Miller.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Chuck, in 2009, 3 sisters and 3 brothers-in-law.

A private family service will be held at a later date. Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery.  Arrangements handled by Mahn Family Funeral Home, Bodelson-Mahn Chapel. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com