Carol C. Ruch

Born September 18, 1932 in Alton to William and Genevieve (Lorimer) Combs, she married Rodney Richard “Gus” Ruch on July 14, 1956 in Alton. He survives.

Also surviving are two sons, Dr. Stuart Ruch of North Adams, Massachusetts and Jefferson Ruch of San Antonio, Texas; one daughter, Mary (Robert) Ruch-Brown of Seattle, Washington; six grandchildren, Chad, Sara, Jakob, Carol, Catherine and Clara; one sister, Jane Ferree of Champaign and her brother-in-law, Stuart Ruch of Hopedale.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Jefferson Combs.

A graduate of Alton High School, Carol was a 1956 graduate of the University of Illinois in Champaign with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Occupation Therapy. She was a member of Delta Delta Delta Sorority.

Carol first worked as an instructor at the University of Illinois in Champaign in their Occupational Therapy Department for 15 years. She then worked at Parkland College in Champaign for 10 years, where she started the Occupational Therapy Department.

She was a family centered person and as a homemaker will be remembered as an excellent cook. Through the years she also enjoyed knitting and camping.

Carol formerly attended St. John’s Episcopal Church in Champaign.

A private family celebration of life gathering will be held at a later date with inurnment in Oak Hill Cemetery in Springfield. Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Eastern Illinois Food Bank, 2405 North Shore Drive, Urbana, IL 61802-7221.

To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com