Carol LaBine is the ninth of 11 children, born to Edgar and Minnie (Bowers) LaBine of East De Pere. Her early education was from St. Joseph Grade School and St. Joseph Academy in Green Bay. She attended St. Norbert College, Marquette University, and Cardinal Stritch where she earned her master's in special education.
As a young child she made several trips to the Chapel at Robinsonville (now the Shrine of Our Lady of Champion) where she was inspired by many young girls attending the Sisters' aspirancy there. Her cousin, Sister Sally Ann Brickner, was one of them. This led her to join this group of women in 1963.
Sister Ruth Ann taught in the Green Bay Diocese at St. Jude, Green Bay; Holy Trinity, Casco; Holy Family, Marinette; and St. John, Little Chute. She also taught for six years at St. Anthony in Columbus, Texas. It was here where she got to know the staff at Casa de Esperanza de los Ninos, a crisis center for young children. She served several summers helping to meet the needs of these young children.
For the past 30+ years Sister has been teaching at St. John School in Little Chute. She has enjoyed her many years of service in a Dutch community which holds the roots of her religious community. For it is here where Crosier Father Edward Daems first served on arrival from Belgium before moving to Bay Settlement and founding the Sisters of St. Francis of the Holy Cross. She has also served her Community as Director of the Associate Relationship from 2018 to 2022.
Reflecting on her 50 years in community, Sister Ruth Ann says she has been guided by the words of Micah 6:8 -- "This is what God asks of you: only to act justly, to love tenderly, and to walk humbly with your God."
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