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Ruth Rich Obituary
Ruth attended the University of Illinois and then Governor's State. She taught Spanish at Rich Central High School for over 30 years. Ruth's life's work was education – she was a dedicated teacher and very active in the schoolteacher's union.
Ruth is survived by sister Nancy (Jay) Abell, brother David (Vicki) Rich, and nieces Jen (Craig) Abell-Champion, Penny (Brian) Ohlendorf, Becky Rich, Elizabeth (Adam) Sheinkopf, Amanda (Dan) Filsinger, and Dawn (Tyler) Martin. She is also survived by many great-nieces and -nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Katherine (nee Lanham) and Noble Rich.
A memorial service is planned for March. The family will notify loved ones in the future when the service is scheduled.
Arrangements entrusted to Steger Funeral Home, 125 E Steger Road (34th Street), Steger, IL. Info: call (708) 755-3400.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ruth Rich
2 Entries
Christina Gowrylow
April 26, 2024
Ms. Rich was my Spanish teacher in high school. I had good memories in class doing art projects and still to this day I have ALL of my stuff from that class! It helped me teach Spanish to my own students as well as with Spanish-speaking friends. I have developed a passion for so many languages and it all started in her Spanish class in the corner at RC. I also still recall feeling inspired by her passion for traveling, taking pictures, and her love for a cold Pepsi everyday;) I'm sad to have come across the news of her passing only just now..... I would have enjoyed sharing with her my language learning journey as well as how much her class has impacted me as a teacher too. Rest in peace, Ms. Rich.
-Christina
Dee Dee Taylor Munden
December 25, 2021
Ruth was a wonderful friend, and very, very dear to me. We were born just a few days apart in 1956, met in fourth grade, and stayed in touch always. Even as a kid Ruth was a powerful force. She had ideas galore for boring summer days or cold Saturday afternoons. And Ruth was always sweet to my little sister and three little brothers. I guess even then she had the qualities of a great teacher.
Ruth had an amazing memory. I never had to tell her a story twice, that's for sure. And she could analyze a situation in a snap, but still leave room for human emotions to flow.
Ruth was interested in almost everything--literature, music, people's lives, recipes, current events, TV, sewing, politics, & sociology. Our conversations covered it all, from micro to macro. I will miss her very much.
My condolences to Ruth's family. You were ever on her mind, and we never spoke without Ruth giving me an update on everyone.
And to Ruth's friends I send true sympathy. We were lucky to know such a very talented and authentic person.
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