Ruth Ann Klaus, or as the family called her, Nina, 88, of Columbia, passed away on Aug. 6, 2026, at the Baptist Homes of Ashland.
Ruth was born in Bunceton, Mo., on July 20, 1938, to Earl and Clara Scott. Ruth married Thomas Klaus on May 28, 1960, in Oklahoma. Together, they had one daughter, Lea Ann Cornman.
Ruth enjoyed dancing and I’m sure many have seen her polka in random locations, like Hy Vee. She also loved music and was an accomplished pianist and organist.
Over the years, Ruth was employed by Dr. Pingleton and Westlakes as a bookkeeper. She also had banking experience as she grew up working with her dad in the bank that the family owned, the Bunceton State Bank. Her last place of employment was that very bank where she had been appointed as the Executive Vice President until the bank sold to UMB in the mid-1980s. She was also an over 60-year member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Columbia, Mo. Ruth’s faith was an important part of her life.
Ruth is survived by her daughter, Lea Ann; three grandchildren, Clara Luster, Cameron Cornman, Carter Cornman; and three great-grandchildren, Madi Mata, Annabelle Luster and Tripp Luster.
In addition to her parents, Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Klaus.
Private family service and burial to be held.
Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.robinsonyagerfh.com.
Robinson-Yager Funeral Home is honored to serve Ruth’s family. (Paid obituary)
