Ruth I. Gabriel, who resided in Charleston, Arkansas, passed away Friday, Oct. 7, 2022, in Charleston.
She was born March 14, 1924, in Brookings, South Dakota, to the late Ingvald C. and Ida (Steen) Hanson on the farm homesteaded by her grandfather. She was 98 years old.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Ervin, and a brother, Ivan.
Ruth and Ervin Gabriel were married in the First Lutheran Church in Brookings on June 23, 1947.  She was employed at First National Bank in Brookings for 32 years and retired as an accounting and control officer.  
During her life in Brookings, Ruth was member of the Ladies Organizations of First Lutheran Church, served on the Board of Deacons of the Church Council, a charter member of the Band Parents Organization of Brookings High School, an active member of Altrusa International, Inc. and Young Matrons Extension Club.  She loved entertaining family and friends.
In 1989, they moved to Bella Vista, Arkansas, to be closer to family, and she became a member of United Lutheran Church and was active in WELCA, Piecemakers, the Visiting Phoebe’s and in later years the Singles’ Group of the church and The Dakota Club.  She enjoyed playing cards and was always willing to help others and be their chauffeur, if necessary.  She loved spending time with her family especially their summer vacations.
She is survived by her loving daughter, Karen Gabriel of Lavaca; a grandson, Eric Lesch and wife Truc Anh Le Vu of Round Rock, Texas; a granddaughter, Heidi Kumar and husband Mayank of Brooklyn, New York and two great-granddaughters, Sunny and Mina Lesch of Round Rock.
A Graveside Service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday,  May 27,  at First Lutheran Cemetery at 337 Eighth Street, Brookings, South Dakota.  
After the service, there will be a time of visiting with family and friends with light refreshments at a location to be announced at the service.  
Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Brotherton Brothers Funeral Home of Charleston.
To pay an online tribute, please visit www.brothertonbrothersfuneralhomes.com.