C. Helene Ruecking, age 86, of Elmhurst, IL, died March 28. Beloved wife of the late Harry; dear sister of Richard Bennett; loving mother of Helene Sroat, Katherine Jennings (Carl), Richard (Marilyn) and William (Sally); devoted grandmother to Daniel, Taylor and Giselle Ruecking, Chenoa Ruecking, Claire, Eric and Alix Jennings, and Helene Eldin, Bennett, Ena, Hasia and Mimi Sroat; great-grandmother of three. Former Antique Dealer and Co-Owner of Stone Apple Farm Antiques in Winfield,, Helene loved to travel to Europe to purchase beautiful antiquities with her husband and son Bill. Along with Harry, who was Senior Vice-President of Sales for World Book Encyclopedia/ Field Enterprises, they enjoyed relationships with noted individuals they met traveling, as well as numerous friendships that brought great joy. They also enjoyed their farm in Prairie du Chien, WI, that has been a family gathering place since the 1960’s. Loved by everyone who knew her, Helene was a staunch supporter of the Democratic party, and valued human equality above all else. Attending John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural Ball was the highlight of a lifelong passion of following politics. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Contributions to The American Lung Association Illinois-Iowa in care of the family would be appreciated.
