Photo Caption: LT to RT – Gary Harris, Jr. – Public Affairs, Veterans Home, Nola Glocke – Ruben’s Great-Granddaughter, Erick Blaisdell – Ruben’s Grandson-in-law.
In a heartfelt tribute to the late Veteran Ruben L. Runningen, the Runningen family continues to honor his legacy through a generous donation benefiting the Minnesota Veterans Home (MVH) in Fergus Falls. The Runningen family’s tradition of hunting and trapping, spanning over five generations, has culminated in a philanthropic endeavor aimed at supporting fellow veterans.
Ruben L. Runningen, a beloved resident of the Minnesota Veterans Home from 2017 until his passing in April 2019, was renowned for his passion for hunting and trapping, deeply ingrained in the fabric of Runningen family history. As a fifth-generation proprietor of Runningen Furs, a family-owned fur business established over 125 years ago, Ruben’s dedication to the outdoors and fur trade left an indelible mark on his family.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Larry Runningen, along with his family, sought to commemorate Ruben’s memory by channeling their shared love for trapping into a noble cause. In 2020, they initiated the “Hides for Veterans” campaign, aimed at collecting deer hides from across Minnesota to raise funds for veterans’ recreation and bingo activities, a pastime cherished by Ruben during his time at the Veterans Home.
The Runningen family’s initiative garnered widespread support, with donation boxes strategically placed at convenience stores in Grant and Ottertail County. Additionally, the community’s response was overwhelmingly positive, with local establishments such as Lake Cabin Meat and Deli Co. in Fergus Falls and Johnson’s Market in Flom contributing their deer hides for the cause.
Over the past four years, the “Hides for Veterans” campaign has raised nearly $4,500 for the Veterans Recreation Fund at the Minnesota Veterans Home in Fergus Falls. This year, a check totaling $1,374, representing the proceeds from the 2023 deer hunting season, was presented to the MVH on March 27. The donation, presented by Ruben’s great-granddaughter, Nola Glocke, and grandson-in-law, Erick Blaisdell, serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of service and camaraderie exemplified by Ruben and his family.
Looking ahead, the Runningen family remains committed to their philanthropic endeavors, with plans to continue the “Hides for Veterans” campaign in the upcoming deer hunting season. Donation boxes will once again be placed at local businesses, providing an opportunity for hunters and community members alike to contribute to the well-being of veterans in need.
The MVH in Fergus Falls extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Runningen family and all those who have supported the “Hides for Veterans” initiative, reaffirming the unwavering bond of camaraderie and support within the veteran community.
For media inquiries, please contact Gary Harris, Jr. at 218/321-2507 or via email at Gary.Harris@state.mn.us.
About Minnesota Veterans Home – Fergus Falls: The Minnesota Veterans Home in Fergus Falls is dedicated to providing high-quality care and support to veterans, ensuring their well-being and comfort in a compassionate and respectful environment.