Mrs. Alta J. Ruhl

Alta J. Ruhl, a Godly woman, who loved Jesus with all of her heart, soul, mind, and strength, 86, of Galesburg, died at 1:35 a.m. Wednesday, November 15, 2017 in OSF St. Mary Medical Center.

She was born October 16, 1931, in Hannibal, Missouri, the daughter of Lawrence and Agnes (Wilmoth) Piper.  She married Phillip Neil Ruhl October 6, 1949 in Hannibal.  He preceded her in death April 6, 2015.

She is survived by a son, Neil (and Joy) Ruhl of rural Knoxville; three daughters, Kathy (and Tim) Stenson of Dahinda, Robin (and Bill) McNamara of Ridge Crest, California, and Jane (and Jeff) Frazier of Dahinda; 17 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; and one great-great grandson.  In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Stan; a brother, Jay Piper; and a sister, Dorothy Jaynes.

Alta was raised and educated in Hannibal, where she graduated from high school.  She was a member of the Oaks Community Church.  In her younger years, she and Phillip enjoyed power boating and fishing.  Alta enjoyed traveling and enjoyed riding along with Phillip on his over the road trucking trips.  She loved going to garage sales and finding bargains.  Alta was an avid walker, who up until her early 80’s was still walking several miles a day.

Cremation will be accorded.  Visitation will be 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, November 21, 2017 at the Oaks Community Church.  Memorial service will follow at the church with Rev. Marty Briney officiating.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Oaks Community Church.  Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services of Galesburg is handling cremation arrangements for the family.  Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.