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BORN

1946

DIED

2025

FUNERAL HOME

Renner-Wikoff Chapel & Crematory

1900 S Philo Rd

Urbana, Illinois

Ruth Christians Obituary

Urbana - Ruth A. Christians, 79, of Urbana passed away Saturday (Jan. 31, 2026) leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience and devotion to her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Rudolph and Lorene Christians; and son, Shawn Brenner.

Ruth is survived by her daughter, Amy (Bill) Halberstadt; sisters, Linda (Sam) Pontillo and Lois Calcagno; two cherished grandchildren; two treasured great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom brought her immense pride and joy.

Ruth will be remembered for her kindness, quiet strength and deep care she showed to those around her. Her presence was a steady source of comfort and love to her family and friends, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A celebration of Ruth's life will be held on Sunday, Feb. 8, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Hudson Farm, Urbana, where family and friends are invited to gather, share memories and honor her life.

Condolences may be made at renner-wikoffchapel.com.

Published by The News-Gazette from Feb. 4 to Feb. 6, 2026.

Memories and Condolences
for Ruth Christians

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4 Entries

Vickie Wimmer Phelps (Phil)

February 11, 2026

We lived right down the road from Rudy in Elmer heaters farm house.We lived there for 11 and a half years. Phil, Vickie, Amy and Julie Phelps. I do remember Ruth. I think my kids went to school with Shawn. My Phil died 5 years ago. Please accept my sympathy. Helen Heater was Phil's aunt.

Daniel Duitsman

February 7, 2026

May the Wind always be at your back and the Sun in your face. You will always be remembered.

Terry Fitzgerald O´Neill

February 7, 2026

I am so sorry to hear of Ruth´s passing. She was with my family after my brother passed as Shawn and my brother Phil were very dear friends for many many years. May she rest in peace. Sending her family our deepest condolences.

Stacy Bergmeier

February 5, 2026

O dear Ruth,
Paperwork without you will never be the same. I know your now free of pain. My prayers are with your family. Hope you are enjoying your peach drink with your family and friends in heaven whom have went before us.

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Memorial Events
for Ruth Christians

Feb

8

Celebration of Life

1:00 p.m.

Hudson Farms Urbana (Urbana, Illinois)

IL

Funeral services provided by:

Renner-Wikoff Chapel & Crematory

1900 S Philo Rd, Urbana, IL 61802

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