Ruth Yvonne Stepan, 72, of Willow River, died Saturday, July 19, 2008 in Mercy Hospital, Moose Lake.  She was born November 7, 1935 in Cass County to Frank and Una (Young) Heavirland.  Ruth was united in marriage to James Stepan on May 29, 1959 in Sturgeon Lake.  She and her husband James farmed west of Willow River until 1975.  Ruth also worked at Luoma's Egg Farm and later Willow River Poultry.  Ruth enjoyed fishing, sight seeing and especially spending time with her grandkids.Ruth is preceded in death by her parents; 4 sisters, Joy Carlson, Patty Opperud, Judy Rosemore and Shirley Thornton; 2 brothers, Russell and Bud.Ruth is survived by her husband James of Willow River; 4 children, Mary (Mike) O'Brien, Dori Stepan, Frank Stepan and Jimmie (Julie) Stepan; grandchildren, Curtis, Lisa, Jennifer, Jana, Martha, Mike, Maggie, Cheyene and Colton; great grandchildren, James, Luke, Matthew, Zack and Sarah; brother, Terry Heavirland; sister, Darlene Frauendienst; numerous nieces and nephews.A gathering was held on Monday, July 28 at 9:30 AM at Gampers Restaurant, Moose Lake.