With immense sadness the family of Ruth “Ruthie” Matteson, age 80, announce her peaceful passing, surrounded by loved ones, on September 14,2025, in Evansville, Indiana. Born on December 24, 1944, in Morris, Illinois, Ruth’s life unfolded like a garden in bloom- vibrant, nurturing, and full of quiet beauty.
A graduate of Morris High School’s class of 1964, Ruth began her career within the service industry, which she brought warmth and grace to every role she held. Notably managing the Morris Country Club for years before dedicating over 10 years to Northern Illinois University’s Building Services before retiring, a position she held with pride and where enduring friendships blossomed.
Ruth was known for her infectious laugh and boundless generosity. Her hands were most at home in the soil of her garden, or tending to her lawn, which thrived under her care and mirrored the joy and beauty she brought into the world. She cherished spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and returning to Rochelle for cookouts with dear friends who remained close to her heart throughout the years. She adored her dog Ty, who she just thought the world of. Ty was her steady companion, who always kept her on her toes and could always count on Ruth for an abundance of treats and back pets.
Family was at the center of Ruth’s life. She was a devoted mother to Lori Matteson of Morris, IL, Leigh Johnson of Elgin, IL, and Kristy (Robert) Glerup of Evansville, IN. Her legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren: Derek ( Mica) Matteson, Megan Matteson, Nathan (Amanda) Glasper, Ashley Glasper, Zachary (Emily Smith) Johnson, Chelsea (Jeremy) Dill, Kaitlin Glasper, Bryce Johnson and Kyleigh Johnson; as well as twelve great-grandchildren who brought immense joy to her later years.
She is also remembered with love by her sisters Janice Wicks and Debbie (Robert)
Ralston; brother-in-law Robert “Bob” Tesdal; six nieces and nephews; and many extended family members.
Ruth was preceded in death by her mother Georgene Kulig; sister Barb Tesdal, brother
James “Jimmy” Sharpe, brother-in-law Paul Wicks, nephew Eric Wicks, niece Jodi Sharpe and Wayne Matteson – her best friend whose memory she held close always.
Ruth’s family would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the Hospice Nurses
that took such great care of her in her final days. Your work is so important and you are appreciated beyond words.
As it was Ruth’s request, cremation rites have been accorded under the care of Simple Cremations in Evansville, Indiana. The family will have a celebration of Ruth’s life on Saturday October, 18, 2025 at the F.O.E. in Morris, Illinois at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Ruth’s name to St.judes.org.
May Ruth’s memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her. Her spirit lingers among the flowers and laughter- a gentle legacy that will never fade.
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