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Ruth D. Lishamer Obituary

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Ruth D. Lishamer 30794286

Ruth D. Lishamer, a spirited soul whose creativity and friendliness touched the lives of many, passed away peacefully on February 10, 2024, at the age of 98.

Born on Valentine’s Day in 1925 to Czech immigrants Betty and George Krizek, Ruth married World War II veteran Elmer Richardson in 1946, raising their two sons, Lee and Terry in Hinsdale. Together they purchased and ran the Gentry Shop in Clarendon Hills. In 1969 she married John Lishamer and moved to Mississippi. Together they shared a life full of joy

and companionship. Upon their return to Clarendon Hills she opened Ruth’s on Park Avenue, which was not just a business,

but her pride and joy until her retirement in 1998. They retired to Wayne, Illinois and lived there until John’s death in 2012.

Since then she has resided in St. Charles.

Ruth was a proud grandmother to Jody and Cory (Candie) Richardson, Kelly (Bucky) Beuten, Kimberly (Thor) VandenBerg, Shawn Harling, John (Amanda) and Steven Lishamer. Her legacy continued to blossom as she became a great-grandmother to 10 great-grandchildren, Violet, Liliana, Rosellie, Nolan, and Linnaea Richardson, Brayden and Jansen Beuten and Reese, Sage and Ashe VandenBerg, each of whom brought her immense joy. She was a loving sister to Dee (Jim) Klinkhamer, aunt to Dan (Sue), Steven and James Klinkhamer and a great-aunt to Lindsey (Pat) O’Connor, Leslie Nathan, Kevin Klinkhamer and Julie (Aaron) Pankoke.

She is preceded in death by her loving husband, John Lishamer, her son Terry (Donna) Richardson, both her parents, her sister Dee Klinkhamer, her nephews James and Steven Klinkhamer and Steve (Ann) Lishamer.

Beyond her family and business, Ruth was a dedicated member of the P.E.O. Sisterhood, an international women’s organization focused on providing educational opportunities for female students around the globe. Her involvement with the Sisterhood was a testament to her belief in the power of education and her commitment to empowering women.

Ruth also volunteered at Hinsdale Hospital for over 25 years, Centralia Hospital in Mississippi and Jackson Mississippi Hospital. “She received more than she gave.” (Her words)

As we bid farewell to Ruth D. Lishamer, we celebrate a life well-lived and cherish the memories she leaves behind. Her spirit will forever be woven into the fabric of the lives she touched, and her story will be told with love and admiration by generations to come. Ruth’s journey through life was one of grace, compassion, and unwavering kindness—a beautiful life that will continue to resonate in the hearts of her family and friends.

The Memorial Service will be held at the Little Home Church by the Wayside, 32W128 Army Trail Road, Wayne, IL 60184 on April 13th, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. A Celebration of Life will be held immediately following at Dunham Woods Riding Club in Wayne, 33W333 Army Trail Road, Wayne, IL 60184.

Donations in Ruth’s memory can be sent to the ASPCA or The American Cancer Society.

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