I am Ruth Tainatongo. I was born in St. Paul, Minnesota to Martin and Charlyn Petermann.  I am the 5th of 6 children in my family. I attended St. John Lutheran School, Martin Luther Academy/Martin Luther Prep School, and Dr. Martin Lutheran College/Martin Luther College. I graduated college in 1985 and sat out a year. While waiting for a call, I worked in an emergency room as a clerk at Ramsey County Hospital.  In July of 1986, I received a call to teach at East Fork Lutheran School. I have been here ever since.  

     While teaching at East Fork Lutheran School, I met my husband Darryl. We were married in 2000.  The Lord blessed us with two wonderful children. Kai was born in 2001 and Hali in 2003.  We enjoy camping at Lake Powell and Roosevelt Lake.  

     My ministry has been a true blessing. Though I have endured the school blowing up in 1986, my years at East Fork have been wonderful. I have been blessed with watching  my first classes grow up, have families, and bring their children to East Fork for me to teach. Soon, I may start on the third generation.  Many of the Apache people are like family to me. I cherish the close relationships that have developed over the years.  

       It has been a joy and privilege to teach at East Fork Lutheran School and bring the truth of God's Word to so many children. I pray the Lord continues to bless the people of the White Mountain Apache Tribe.

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"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." Hebrews 11:1