Ruth Ann Asmussen Obituary (1938 - 2011)

Ruth Ann Asmussen, 73, of Edinburg, IL died at 9:10 am Friday, March 18, 2011, at her son's home in Springfield. She was born March 5, 1938 in Dayton, Ohio, the daughter of Wilbur and Juanita Mae Harris Alexander. On September 5, 1959 she married Kenneth T. Asmussen in Auburn, IL. Ruthie was a member of the Edinburg United Methodist Church where she was a choir member, she was an affiliate member of Gulfview United Methodist Church in Panama Beach, FL, she was a member and President of the United Methodist Women, and led many spiritual retreats. She was a scout leader and on the Board of Directors of Girl Scouts of America, Land of Lincoln Council. In her lifetime she worked in many places, including Jane Lamb Hospital in Clinton, IA, and St. John's Hospital in Springfield, but her most memorable work was being a mentor and Christian spiritual leader. She was a team member on numerous walks and Lay Director on two "Walk to Emmaus". She enjoyed being a snowbird at her "sand castle" in Panama City Beach, FL, and spending time there with her friends and family. Surviving are her husband Rev. Ken Asmussen of Edinburg; Daughters: Sherri Leahy and husband Brian of Grand Rapids, MI and Karen Miller and husband Lowell, Jr. of Kansas City, MO; Son: Kurt T. Asmussen and wife Kendra of Springfield. Beloved Granny to: Amanda Miller, Maggie Mae Leahy, Emily Miller, Daniel Leahy, Brandon Asmussen, Ellen Miller, Thomas Miller, Kayla Asmussen, Madison Harrison, and Garrett Asmussen; Great Grandchild: Makaylie Brunson; Brother: Robert Lane Alexander and wife Malinda of Florissant, MO; Brother-in-law: Richard Asmussen and wife Margaret of Anderson, SC. There are numerous nieces and nephews. She was a "sparkle" to all who knew her. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, March 26 at the Edinburg United Methodist Church with Rev. Ray Radae officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until time of service in the church on Saturday. A service will be held at a later date in Panama City Beach, FL. Memorials may be made to: Edinburg United Methodist Church 102 W. Douglas, Edinburg, IL 62531 or the United Methodist Women's Mission Fund c/o Gulfview United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 7106 Panama City Beach, FL 32413-7106 or Susan G. Komen for the Cure, 5005 Lyndon B. Johnson Freeway, Dallas, TX 75244.