Ruth Elizabeth Gustafson

Ruth Elizabeth Gustafson, 96, of Geneva, IL., formerly of South Holland, IL., passed away on Monday, January 11, 2021 at her son’s home in Elgin, IL.  Ruth was born on September 17, 1924, in Chicago, IL., the daughter of Peter and Karin (nee. Brodin) Bihl.  She was united in marriage to Carl R. Gustafson on June 27, 1953 in Chicago, IL.

Ruth was a ninety-year member of the International Organization of Good Templars (IOGT).  She served as a camp counselor for many years at Good Templar Park and held many offices in the IOGT. She was an elementary school teacher fourteen years. For two summers she worked at Yellowstone National Park (1949 & 1950). In the summer of 1951, she spent ten weeks touring Europe. She visited the British Isles, France, Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Italy. While in Rome, she toured St. Peter’s Cathedral and even had an audience with the Pope (Pious the XII). She served on numerous committees, sang in the choir and was an active member of the United Presbyterian Church of South Holland, Il., until she moved to Geneva, Il. in 2007 where she became a member of Fox Valley Presbyterian Church in Geneva, IL.

Ruth is survived by her son, Carl (Pam) Gustafson; one granddaughter, Elizabeth Gustafson; three nieces, Gail Bacon, Lynda Jaros and Susan Cocetti; and two nephews, Eric Bihl and Peter Bihl.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband Carl Roy Gustafson; and her one brother, Carl Bihl. 

Memorial service TBA.  Interment will be held at Oak Hill Cemetery in Blue Island at a later date.  Memorial donations in Ruth’s name may be made to Fox Valley Presbyterian Church, 227 East Side Drive, Geneva, IL. 60134.