Jody Ann (Leverty) Ruehling, age 73, of Owatonna, passed away on Friday January 10, 2025.

Jody was born November 22, 1951, in Owatonna, to the late Joseph and Eleanor (Andrist) Leverty. She graduated from Owatonna High School in 1969. She enjoyed being a part of the choir and orchestra and was an OHS Caroler. Jody graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1971 with a degree in Dental Hygiene. She worked as Hygienist for over 40 years.

Jody married Roger Ruehling on June 19, 1971 at St. Paul's Episcopal Church. The initial years of their marriage they spent based on where Roger was stationed with the United States Air Force. They spent time in Denver Colorado, Omaha Nebraska, and Bossier Parish Louisiana prior to settling in Owatonna to raise their family.

What began as just a get together of four Dental Hygienists who attended the same school, became a lifelong friendship and the creation of the Dental Cabin Crew. They met every summer, eventually including spouses, 11 children, and 17 grandchildren. Jody always looked forward to meeting up with "the girls."

Jody loved to spend time with her family and enjoyed being a grandmother to her grandchildren and grandpuppies. Jody and Roger in recent years have spent time traveling around the United States visiting family and friends. She also enjoyed sewing and crocheting while watching th Hallmark Channel.

She is survived by her husband of 53 year Roger Ruehling and their children Andy Ruehling (Denise Franz) and Megan (Carl) Kettunen, grandchildren Noah, Hannah, and Micah Kettunen, sister Kathy (Dr. John) Muellerleile, and stepfather Leon Andrist.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday February 22, 2025, at Michaelson Funeral Home, 1930 Austin Road, Owatonna MN 55060, from 1 pm to 3 pm.