Iva Ruth Harris, age 96, died peacefully Saturday, July 12, 2003, at the Good Samaritan Center, surrounded by members of her family and her pastor. Formerly of Clarks Grove, Iva was born there on July 3, 1907, the daughter of the late Theodore and Sophie (Nielson) Jorgensen. She graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1925. Following graduation, Iva worked in Denver, Colo., and in Owatonna.

On Oct. 1, 1940, Iva was united in marriage to John H. Harris at the parsonage in Clarks Grove. Following their marriage, they lived and worked several places in northern Minnesota, including Cusson, where they owned and operated a grocery store. They later built a home on the north shore near Grand Marais where they lived for several years. John (Jack) died in 1969 and Iva returned to Clarks Grove in the fall of 1971. Iva was a member of the First Baptist Church in Clarks Grove, where she attended the adult Sunday school class and was active in the Silver Circle. She enjoyed gardening and sewing. In earlier years, she had taught classes in sewing.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; brothers: Ernest, Arthur, Raymond, Donald, Gordon, Roger, John and Richard; and sisters: Esther Talbott, Amy Lockie, Elsie McCloud and Lorna Walker.

She is survived by many nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be held at the First Baptist Church of Clarks Grove at 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 16. Private burial will be in the Clarks Grove Baptist Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to the church or the donor’s choice.