Stella Ann Ruzek, age 88, of Austin, died Sunday morning, May 22, 2005, at the Austin Medical Center.

Stella was born June 11, 1916, on a farm near Myrtle to John and Karoline (Havel) Chmelik. For many years she kept house for her brothers while they farmed, Her formal education lasted through 10th grade, but she completed beauty school in Minneapolis. On May 7, 1943, she was united in marriage to Carl A. Ruzek in Medford, Ore., just prior to his departure overseas during World War 11. Eventually they resided in Austin where Stella worked briefly for the Geo. A. Hormel Co. Raising a family of three sons became her real calling. In the 1970s she worked for St. Marks Lutheran Home for nine years. She retired when Carl’s service-related disabilities and his other medical problems required greater attention. Stella was an active member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church and a member of the Western Fraternal Lodge for more than 50 years.

Her kind and friendly manner, love of people and putting others first was a blessing and inspiration to family and friends. Her talent for making outstanding kolaches was a delight to many.

Stella is survived by three sons: Mike (Barb) Ruzek, and Dave (Sue) Ruzek, all of Austin, and Dan Ruzek of Waterloo, Iowa; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Carl; sister, Bessie (Frank) Ruzek; and four brothers, Adolph Chmelik, Frank Chmelik, Henry (Mary) Chmelik, and Charles (Donna) Chmelik.

Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Thursday, May 26, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Austin with the Rev. Dan Kahl officiating. Interment will follow the service in Grandview Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 25, at the Worlein Funeral Home, Austin, and for one hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday.

Memorials are preferred to Our Saviors Lutheran Church, Austin Medical Center Foundation, or the American Heart Association.