Ruth M. Pheanis

Ruth M. Pheanis 90, of Rockford, formerly of DeKalb passed away on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at Grand Victorian of Rockford. She was born September 3, 1934, in Willisville, IL and was the daughter of Charles and Dora (Wendell) Benson.

Ruth was born and raised on her family's farm in southern Illinois, where life was simple, without running water or electricity. Despite the challenges, her childhood was filled with happiness and cherished memories.

After graduating from West High School in Aurora in 1952, Ruth embarked on a journey of hard work and dedication. She held various roles, including working for Paw Paw Business Service and serving as a secretary for the DeKalb County Special Education Association. For 26 years, she lovingly managed a student rental house for NIU students, fostering a welcoming environment for all who lived there.

Ruth's faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she was a devoted member of St. Mary Catholic Church in DeKalb. She married Harold T. Hart in November 1952. She found love again with Jack W. Pheanis in 1972.

A passionate cook and baker, Ruth had a gift for creating meals that brought people together. Her summer pies and famous chocolate chip cookies were a testament to her talent and love. She expressed her affection for her family through her cooking, making every gathering special.

To Ruth, her grandchildren were her greatest treasures. Her home was adorned with photos of them, and she delighted in sharing stories about their lives. She embodied the warmth and wisdom of a classic grandmother, always ready to listen, share, and love unconditionally.

Ruth had a way of staying connected to those she cared about. Her love of letter writing kept her close to family and friends, and her weekly bridge club brought joy and camaraderie. She lived life to the fullest, and on her 83rd birthday, she celebrated by skydiving—a true testament to her adventurous spirit.

Ruth's life was a beautiful tapestry of love, resilience, and joy, woven together with faith, family, and a zest for life that inspired everyone who knew her.

Survivors include; daughters; Kathryn (Lane) DeVries of Arcata, CA, and Sue (Curt) Peterson of Loves Park, IL, sons; Brian (Katie) Hart of Lake Placid, FL, Mark (Terri) Pheanis of Geneva and Mike (Shawn) Pheanis of Tampa, FL. Eleven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. Brothers Don Benson of Montgomery, IL and Bruce (Mary) Benson of Batavia, IL. She was preceded in death by her parents, husbands; Harold and Jack, son Stephen, and brothers Marvin and Leland.

Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at 10:30am at St. Mary Catholic Church in DeKalb with Father Dean Russell officiating. Burial will be Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at 1:30pm at St. James Calvary Cemetery in Lee, IL. Family will greet friends from 9:30am-10:30am at the church. In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to the Wounded Warriors Project https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org

Arrangements were entrusted to Finch Funeral Home 310 Oak St. DeKalb, IL 60115 815-758-3841.