Ruth R. Bunzel

Age 85 of Coal City, Illinois, died Tuesday afternoon, April 15, 2025 at her home.

Born on June 9, 1939, in Kankakee, Illinois, Ruth was the beloved daughter of John William and Bernadine (Weiske) Rice. She spent her formative years in Fort Collins, Colorado, where she graduated from high school, laying the foundation for a life defined by hard work, devotion, and quiet strength.

On June 9, 1959—her 20th birthday—Ruth married the love of her life, Bobby J. Bunzel, and together they established their home and raised a family.

Ruth played an integral role in the family business, B&B Appliance Sales and Service in Morris, before continuing her professional journey with H&R Block. Most recently, she was a valued team member at Morris Trailer Sales, where she remained actively employed.

A woman of many talents and interests, Ruth had a zest for life. She enjoyed playing euchre and frequently took part in tournaments. She loved the outdoors, whether it was hunting, fishing, or traveling—both across the country and abroad.

Above all, Ruth found her greatest joy in her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, who cherished every moment spent with her loved ones. She will be deeply missed, but forever remembered.

Survivors include her two children: Sandy (Shawn) Hennessy of Morris and Bob Bunzel of Coal City; grandchildren: Ryan (Breann) Cumming of Coal City, Jordan Bunzel (fiancé, Jesse Keith) of Ohio, Bradley Bunzel of Coal City, Corey Rose of Morris and Breanna Bunzel (fiancé, Daniel Hayes) of Kankakee; great grandchildren: Audrey Rose of Williston, North Dakota, Callan Cumming and Hallie Cumming, both of Coal City and Jameson Hayes of Kankakee, and one brother-in-law, Donald Bunzel of Topeka, Kansas.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Bobby in 2003; grandson, Josh Cumming and siblings: William (Alberta) Rice and Irene (Jack) Baldridge.

Cremation rites have been accorded, and Ruth will be laid to rest privately with her late husband Bobby in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Ruth’s memory to Lightways Hospice, 250 Water Stone Circle, Joliet, Illinois 60431.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.ReevesFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Ruth’s memorial page online through social media.

Cremation and memorial services have been made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland and Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-634-2125)