Ruth Clara Haxel
Ruth Clara Haxel, 93, of Quincy, passed away Friday, September 3, 2021 at home surrounded by loving family. Ruth was born January 28, 1928, in Quincy, a daughter of Lawrence John and Gertrude Elizabeth Koetters Niehaus. She was raised in Quincy and graduated from Notre Dame High School in 1946.
On November 9, 1957, Ruth married George Howard Haxel, Jr. at St. John Catholic Church in Quincy. They were married for 63 years. George preceded her in death on December 25, 2020.
Ruth held jobs during high school and post-graduation at Kresge’s, Grant’s, the Hosiery Mill, and Artcraft before focusing on raising her seven children. She went back to work alongside George to develop and operate their businesses, Haxel Cabinet Company, Cross Country Trailer Center, and Motor Valet Car Wash. Desiring to stay active, she continued to work into her late eighties.
Ruth had a lifelong love of learning. Mastering her business knowledge through practical experience, she also had a keen interest in continuing education, enrolling in college courses at the age of 60. She was quick to pick up any nearby textbook, an avid nonfiction reader, and a lover of crossword puzzles.
In her younger years, Ruth was an ardent tennis and softball player. She was a talented seamstress, enjoyed collecting fine crystal and beautiful linens, and created wonderful memories for her family. Always finding humor in situations, she laughed easily and her quick wit caused others to laugh with her. She was known for her strength, independence, and being high-spirited. She found great satisfaction in selflessly doing for others and helping those in need.
Ruth was a member of St. Peter Catholic Church.
She is survived by her son, Phil (Cheryl) Haxel, of Quincy; five daughters, Monica Haxel of Chicago, IL, Cindy (Tom) Stupavsky of Quincy, Pam (George) Dreyer of Quincy, Patti (Roger) Walsh of Elmhurst, IL, Melinda (Paul) Niemann of St. Charles, Missouri; 14 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and a daughter-in-law, Cindy Vancil Haxel of Quincy. Numerous nieces, nephews, and other family members also survive.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; newborn son, Jeffrey George Haxel; son, Frank Haxel; two sisters, Sister Mary Meldon Niehaus and Millicent Wiskirchen; five brothers, Elmer, Eugene, Clarence, Roy and Carl Niehaus; and many friends.
Funeral services with a Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Peter Catholic Church on Thursday, September 9, 2021 at 11:30 AM. Visitation will be held at the Church on Thursday from 10:30 AM until the time of the services. Interment in Calvary Cemetery in Quincy, Illinois. An expression of sympathy in memory of Ruth is suggested to Quincy Notre Dame High School, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the Alzheimer’s Association, or a charity of choice.
To the Haxel family our thoughts and prayers are with you all.. Jeff and Joanne Powers Bergman
Being my Godmother, she will always hold a special place in my heart. Sympathies go out from my entire family to the Haxel family. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
Cindy & family, I am so sorry to learn of your mother’s passing. Please accept my sympathy. I am praying for your family.
Deepest sympathies to Monica and the family. May Ruth’s soul Rest In Peace with those she loved and lost and with whom she will now be reunited with.
Thinking of you all and wishing you peace and comfort as you grieve your loss.
Such a nice lady! Would ask “Whatcha up to” and before I could answer… She would say “How’s your wife and kids? Gunna miss ya Ruth!
Our heart goes out to you and your family. Love…
Sending love and support to you and your family.
Praying for the Haxel family. May you find peace in memories of her. You are blessed with the bounty of family during this time of grief.
Hugs and prayers to you all
My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. I hope that your fond memories will bring you peace.
So sorry about the passing of this wonderful woman! Although we didn’t have a chance to know her well, her spirit, sense of humor and love were evident. Much love to all of her family and friends. Steve and Marcia Putman
I was lucky enough to meet Grandma Ruth after meeting my now husband Daniel. I’ll never forget the first time meeting her where she tried to slide Daniel money to make sure he took me to dinner somewhere nice on my first trip to Quincy. It was easy to see how much she loved her kids and grandkids. We were also fortunate enough for her to meet her great grandson Ethan over the last year. She was an amazing woman, mother, and grandmother. Lots of love to her and the rest of the family!