Obituary: Caecilia E. (Podgejsek) Ringat

Caecilia E. (Podgejsek) Ringat, 90, Cloquet passed away Jan. 9, 2025, in her home with her family by her side. She was born in Germany and raised by Alfred and Cecilia (Podgejsek) Spendler, with her siblings, Manfred “Manny” and Melanie “Lonnie.”

Growing up in Europe during World War II presented many challenges, but Caecilia persevered. She married Herbert Ringat on May 5, 1957, in Dorsten, Germany and five days later they set sail for the United States. They lived in Mahnomen, Minnesota with Caecilia’s aunt, Marie (Podgejsek) Geray before moving to Cloquet. Caecilia worked as a cook for the Cloquet Hospital, the Carlton County Jail, and the LSS Youth Shelter.

Her most rewarding job was cooking for the children who were at the shelter. She had many stories of how much the children liked her homecooked meals and cookies she lovingly made for them. After retiring, Caecilia enjoyed working in her flower garden, caring for her apple trees, making applesauce and apple pies, canning and baking. She appreciated it when a friend would stop over for a cup of coffee and a visit.

Herbert and Caecilia were blessed with two sons, Steve and Tom. The happiest pictures of her were of her holding one of her two sons when they were young. She enjoyed watching them grow up and attending their sporting events. Caecilia was always ready with a lunch for her sons and their friends, whether they were at the house or going fishing or hunting. Later, Herbert and Caecilia were excited to welcome five grandchildren to the family, and enjoyed spending time with them. Grandma Cece always made the best Christmas cookies.

Caecilia was preceded in death by her parents, Alfred and Cecilia Spendler; her husband, Herbert; aunt, Marie Geray; brother, Manny Spendler; nephew, Troy Spendler; and close family friend, Vern Granholm. She is survived by her son Steve Ringat and his children, Laura, Ani and Kendall; son Tom (Christine) Ringat and their children, Sarah and Allison; her sister, Lonnie Podgejsek; sister-in-law, Sally Spendler; and all her friends and neighbors.

A private family service will be held at a later date. To leave an online condolence for family, visit http://www.nelsonfuneralcare.net.