Ruth Ann Essington age 69, of 1438 North 1403rd Lane, Fowler, IL died on Wednesday, April 5, 2017 at 11:45 a.m. in her home. She was born August 4, 1947 in Breese, IL a daughter of Martin and Frieda (Kleiboeker) Hugo. She married her high school sweetheart, Robert J. “Bob” Essington on February 11, 1967 in Messiah Lutheran Church in Carlyle, IL. Bob preceded her in death on November 15, 2012.

Ruth graduated from Carlyle High School in 1965 and from the LaRog Academy of Beauty Culture in Centralia, IL in 1966.

She loved caring for her family and attending many of her grandchildren’s activities. She was a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, the Quilter’s and served as co-chairman of the Funeral Dinner’s Committee. She loved traveling with family and dear friends, shopping and playing cards.

Survivors include her son, Bradly J. Essington and his wife Laura of Quincy; a daughter, Melanie Jo Zehnle and her husband Greg of Fowler. Five grandchildren, Alison, Adrian and Amanda Zehnle; Briana and Brady Essington. One sister, Betty Blumenkamp and husband Rev. Ed of Quincy;
One brother, Don (Cherie) Hugo of St. Charles, MO; Two brothers-in-law, Robert Fruend of Carlyle and Greg Essington of Perryville, MO: many beloved nieces, nephews and very dear friends also survive.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, parents, her husband, and a sister Elaine Fruend.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, April 10, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. in Our Redeemer Lutheran Church by Rev. Martin Eden. Interment will be in Greenmount Cemetery. Visitation will be held Sunday from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Duker & Haugh Funeral Home. Memorials are suggested to Blessing Foundation for HOSPICE or to the Funeral Dinners Committee at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church.