Lars O. Rue grew up in Iowa and graduated from Iowa State University, receiving his bachelor’s degree and law degree at the same time. It is said that he attended undergraduate and law school classes simultaneously, without official approval. When he finished both programs and faculty members learned of his accomplishment, they demanded an apology. Rue refused but received both degrees, nonetheless.
Rue practiced law and dabbled in local politics in Iowa before moving to Minneapolis in 1910. He maintained an active law practice until his appointment to the Hennepin County District Court in 1931, where he remained until 1949. He was also a trustee of Fairview Hospital in Minneapolis for 37 years. A longtime faculty member and trustee of Minnesota College of Law, Rue served as dean during the difficult early years of the Great Depression.