Obituary
Ruth Lucille (Lorenzen) Spencer
Ruth Lucille (Lorenzen) Spencer, 91 of Holmen, a woman of strong faith, passed peacefully on May 19, 2026, surrounded by her family and dear friend, Marion. Ruth was born in Sheboygan, WI on November 28, 1934, to Lorenz and Linda Lorenzen, and she was the youngest of 6 children. Ruth then met the love of her life, Ken Spencer at the Cardinal Tap, a story often told. They were married on September 10, 1955, and welcomed three children to bless their family. Throughout their life together, they lived in 4 different communities in Pennsylvania, Minnesota and Wisconsin before making Holmen, WI their home in 1973, where they started Spencer Insurance Agency.
Ruth was very active in the Holmen community that she loved. She was a proud member of Holmen Lutheran Church for over 50 years, Holme American Legion Auxiliary for over 45 years and Holmen Lioness. During her term as Lioness President, she was proud to successfully spearhead the project to raise money for the American Flag that still flies on Holmen Bluff for all to see.
She retired in 1992 after they sold the insurance agency. Then she and Ken enjoyed traveling in the RV. After traveling to several areas across the country for a few years after retirement, they settled in Fort Clark Springs, Texas where they wintered for 21 years. While there, they formed many lasting friendships, enjoyed golfing with Ruth winning several golf championships. Ruth also enjoyed performing in plays at the community theater in Fort Clark Springs. One of the things Ruth and Ken were most proud of was helping to start a Lutheran Church in Brackettville, Texas.
Ruth is survived by her three children, David Spencer (Deb Bauer), Lara (Jim) Hines, and Linda Bena (Tim Smaby), grandchildren Amanda Spencer, Jessica Spencer, Jacob Hines (Brooke), Bailey Hines and Brock Bena along with six great grandchildren, as well as many dearly beloved nieces and nephews. Ruth was proceeded in death by Ken, her husband of 68 years. She was also proceeded in death by son-in-law, Tim Bena, granddaughter, Audra Bena along with her siblings (which made her the last of her generation for both sides of the family), and many other family members and dear friends.
Ruth was a person of deep faith. She was the glow in every room and the first person to ask, ‘how are you?” Ruth and Ken enjoyed making new and lasting friendships everywhere they traveled and lived.
The family greatly appreciates the help, guidance and comforting care provided to Ruth and to the family by all the staff of Prairie Homes and Gundersen Hospice, especially Nurse Gretchen.
We’re not sure how many of you were able to watch your parents dance. But as their children we would be excited for the opportunity to watch them dance. Always in step with each other, dad would swing her around as if to show off the love of his life. As we the children grew, we realized each and every day was a dance for them. Always together never apart. Our parents would ride together to the agency, come home for lunch and listen to Paul Harvey then go back to finish their day at the office. Only to come home and enjoy a Manhattan and talk about their day as is they didn’t already know. It was truly a beautiful dance to watch. We are happy to know that mom and dad are now dancing together again in Heaven just as they danced endlessly together in life.
The visitation will be held on Friday May 29, 2026, at 10:00 am with a memorial service at 11:30 am at Holmen Lutheran Church, 228 Morris Street, Holmen. Pastor Matt Toso will officiate. Memorials may be given to Holmen Lutheran Church in Ruth’s name.
Coulee Region Cremation Group is assisting the family with arrangements.
Ruth was a loving and kind lady. I had the pleasure of spending time with her on a number of occasions. Heaven has truly received an angel. My condolences to her family.