Goldie Mae Rugg, 88, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away at home on Sunday, June 24, 2018, surrounded by family.

Goldie was born Nov. 5, 1929, in Austin to Harold “Ole” and Bessie “Bet” (Foster) Richard. She graduated from Austin High School. She married Dale Rugg, her high school love, on Dec. 3, 1949. Goldie and Dale raised five sons. She began her journey as a dairy farm wife near Brownsdale, Minnesota, later moving to a dairy farm west of Lyle, Minnesota, and finally to a dairy farm south of Austin until they dispersed their herd of registered Holsteins in December 1974. The herd name was Go-May Holsteins, a prefix Dale chose to recognize Goldie, the silent partner in their dairy operation. Goldie’s tasks on the farm ranged from keeping the books to keeping the milk house spotless. Goldie supported and encouraged growth opportunities available to her sons through 4-H, FFA, church and sports activities. She served as a key leader for the Enterprise 4-H Club and was recognized as an honorary member of the Austin FFA.

Upon retiring as a dairy farm couple, Goldie and Dale moved to Austin. She worked as a floral clerk at Johnson’s Floral and Hy-Vee. Goldie cherished helping her son, Ross, at his floral shop in Chanhassen, Minnesota, during busy seasons.

Goldie would readily admit that her favorite “career” was that of being a wife, mom, grandma and great-grandma. She lived for family gatherings such as confirmations, graduations, weddings and sporting events. Goldie supported each of her 10 grandchildren, regardless of their interest.

Goldie was a natural in the kitchen. Each and every family activity and family celebration has been graced with her delicious desserts and one-of-a-kind potato salads. Goldie accumulated her favorite recipes, including favorites for Dale and each of her sons, and printed them in a personalized cookbook that would serve as a priceless gift to her family. Most notably were her infamous Grandma Goldie bars, a sweet whose recipe can be found when googled.

Goldie developed meaningful and treasured relationships with each of her daughters-in-law. It was an absolute treat for her to welcome them into a family that, until the boys married, would be dominated with male conversations. She was also blessed with a large extended family of six sisters and two brothers. Together, they share countless memories of spending time together.

Goldie’s faith and church family at the First United Methodist Church in Austin were very important to her. She has supported many families by leading lunch efforts for the Church Circle group. Goldie will be remembered for being an unselfish person, willing to give of her time and talents to her family, friends and faith.

Goldie is survived by her husband of 68 years, Dale; sons and daughters-in-law, Greg and Nancy, Austin, Brad and Lorrie, Owatonna, Minnesota, Rick and Barb, Westby, Wisconsin, Jeff and Mary, Stevens Point, Wisconsin, and Ross and Patti, Bloomington, Minnesota. She leaves wonderful memories for 10 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, July 3, 2018, at First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Dennis Tamke and the Rev. Debbie King Quale officiating. Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. on Monday, July 2, 2018, at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary and for one hour prior to the service on Tuesday at the church. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery.