Carole Lucille Ruppert

Carole Lucille Ruppert (née Harrison), age 94, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2026, in Geneva, Illinois. Born on December 25, 1931, in Oak Park, Illinois, Carole brought joy and laughter into the world from the very beginning—arriving on Christmas Day and continuing to be a gift to those around her throughout her life.

Carole was a woman of many talents and passions. She was a gifted comedian whose wit and humor won her a sillier than Phyllis Diller contest, the judge being Phyllis Diller herself. Her intelligence and creativity found expression in countless other ways: as a writer of comedic plays and songs, a craft artist whose work reflected her vibrant spirit, and a baker of cakes and sweets for many occasions. Carole was also a photographer and she and her sister Fern wrote a weekly article for a local newspaper. She organized variety shows for PTA fundraising events at her children's elementary school each year, writing the scripts and making costumes. She once organized a campaign to make her town, Bartlett, more beautiful calling it "Think Green", raising funds to plant a Christmas tree in Bartlett Park earning her a commendation and praise in a letter she received from First Lady, Lady Bird Johnson. Carole's artistic soul touched every aspect of her life.

Her deep faith in God was a guiding force throughout her years. Carole enjoyed hosting a Bible study group of friends, sharing their love of God and companionship. Her belief was not only spoken but lived—through acts of kindness, compassion, and unwavering support for others.

Carole's legacy lives on through her loving family. She is remembered by her brother William Harrison (Kay), her five daughters: Norma Cunningham (William Humbracht), Marian Olson (Bruce), Leona Carter (Doug), Tina Drzonek (Tim Shafer), and Amy Frankel. Her joy extended to the next generations as well—grandchildren: Steven Cunningham (Amy), Larry Mattes (Colline Wise), David Mattes (Sarah), Justin Littler, and Marissa LeMaster (Andrew). To her stepchildren as well, Anna Michael, Eileen Van Houten, and Barbie Harlin (Jim), Chuck Ruppert (Jerrie) and Michael Ruppert (Joelle) and to many great-grandchildren who carry forward the light of her love.

Carole was preceded in death by her husband Charles Ruppert, her parents William & Jean Harrison, sisters Bonnie Peterson & Fern Hill, infant grandson Efrem Kolodziej, infant great-granddaughter Winifred Mattes, son-in-law Neal Frankel (Amy), stepdaughter Patricia Ruppert, and ex-husband Eugene Drzonek.

Those who knew Carole will remember her as witty and funny, caring and talented—a woman whose presence made life richer for everyone around her. Her memory will continue to inspire laughter, creativity, faith, and love in all who were fortunate enough to know her.

A Celebration of her life will be held on January 25, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Riverside Receptions 35 N. River Ln, Geneva, IL.