Laura S. Ruhl, 67, of Galesburg, passed away unexpectedly at 5:32 a.m. Sunday, April 18, 2021, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria.
Laura was born February 1, 1954, in Galesburg, the daughter of Delbert and Shirley (Courson) Chambers. She married Michael Dawson on August 3, 1971 in Galesburg. She later married Stanley M. Ruhl on October 14, 1983 in Galesburg. He preceded her in death on June 25, 1998.
Left to cherish her memory is her companion of over 20 years, Terry Poole of Galesburg; a daughter, Andrea Dawson of Galesburg; a son, Nickolas (fiancé Ashlee) Ruhl of Galesburg; two step-daughters, Sara Ruhl of Alton and Jackie Haynes of Belleville; 10 grandchildren; and three great grandchildren. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents.
Laura graduated from Galesburg High School in 1972 and from Carl Sandburg College with a degree in cosmetology. Laura worked as a hairdresser for many years. She also received her teaching certificate and taught cosmetology at Carl Sandburg College.
Laura was a woman of faith. She was a member of the former Emmanuel United Methodist Church, where she was an active leader with the United Methodist Women’s Mission. Laura had a love for life and her family. One of her greatest joys was spending time in the swimming pool, especially with her grandchildren. Laura had an outgoing personality, not knowing a stranger, even in our digital world. She hosted a Facebook page, Grandma’s Frantic Ramblings, where she had over 200,000 followers. Laura enjoyed the beauty of nature.
Visitation will be 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, April 23, 2021, at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel. Cremation will be accorded following the visitation. Due to guidelines associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing and facemasks will be required. Memorial contributions may be made to the family. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.
