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LEONARD — Ruth Halvorson was named the 46th First Lady of Clearwater County on May 3 at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Leonard.

Nearly 50 women were in attendance at the event, which was filled with music and history.

After the opening remarks, Clearwater County Historical Society staff member Denise Hogenson read the names of former first ladies. Jazmyn Smith recounted the history of the First Lady event and the importance of educating people about the significant roles women have played in the history of our country.

2024 First Lady Eileen Vorderbruggen then shared changes she has seen in her lifetime.

Tamara Edevold, executive director of the Clearwater County Historical Society, was the emcee and keynote speaker for the event, presenting "Women of Courage, Compassion and Commitment."

Her program focused on 11 women from Clearwater County over the years, their life experiences, and how they embodied these values.

"Our mission at the historical society is to make certain that everyone is remembered for as long as possible," said Edevold.

Following the program, Halvorson was inducted as the 2025 First Lady of Clearwater County. She was nominated for being a true caregiver who helps others during times of illness and adversity.

Halvorson spent her career as a nurse, from the time she graduated high school until she retired in 2012. Starting as a nurse's aide, she went on to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in 1979 at the Clearwater County Hospital. She also worked at the Clearwater County Nursing Services.

She is involved in many acts of community care, always willing to drive someone to an appointment, make brownies for Legion bingo, fill in at the senior center or sell poppies for a fundraiser.

At the Bagley Senior Center, she volunteers with meals on wheels, works in the thrift shop and helps with the many fundraisers they have held over the years.

Halvorson is also a member of the Bagley American Legion Auxiliary and volunteers for the Bingo concession booth, the Memorial Day program and the Ride for the Stones event. She makes lap quilts for veterans and for those in nursing homes.

Additionally, she helps with programming at her church, from suppers to weddings and funerals.

Halvorson is a lifelong resident of Clearwater County. She is the oldest of three children born to Floyd and Alice Nelson. In 1965, Ruth married James "Jim" Halvorson. The couple had three sons: Marlyn, Steve and Jason. Ruth has nine grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

"We pray, in her humble way and never wanting to be the center of attention, that she will accept this honor extended to her," a community member wrote in their nomination letter on behalf of Halvorson. "We are truly grateful to her and for her; she makes a difference in the lives of many and is a true visiting angel."