Judith Ann "Judy" Ruhnke

Judith Ann “Judy” Ruhnke, age 64, passed away on September 20, 2025, in Park City, Illinois. Born on February 1, 1961, in Chicago, Judy lived a life marked by true laughter, compassion, creativity, and deep faith.

Judy is lovingly remembered by her husband, William Pfeil; her daughter, Hillary Faith (Alex) Anthony; and her cherished grandchildren: Asher, Blaise, Cecilia, Dallan, Florian, Genevieve, Hale, and Ilsa. She also leaves behind her sisters Cheryl (Kevin) Keuler, Patsy Ruhnke, Hope Ptak, and Jennifer Friberg; brothers Craig (Lainey) Friberg and Kirk Sperling; and many beloved nieces and nephews including Michele, Daniel, Lisa, Ryan, Kayla, Summer, Natalie, Suzanne, Heather, Chad, Natasha, Jamie, Zachary, Morgan and Tara. 

Judy shared a close bond with her sisters-in-law Teresa (Herb) Mackey, Tina (Bill) Kasper, and brother-in-law Wesley (Terri) Pfeil. Her cousin Ellen Schramm also held a special place in her heart She also leaves behind her beloved rescue dog, Izzybella who provides endless love and cuddles in Judy's final days.

She is preceded in death by her parents David and Alice Ruhnke and Harry and Ellen Sperling, as well as her brothers Gene Ruhnke, David Ruhnke, and Scott Friberg. 

Judy’s life was filled with joy in the simple pleasures—she loved spending time with family and friends, around a dinner table, card table or crafting table. Her home was often filled with the happy patter of rescued dogs she fostered with care and devotion. A true friend and animal lover, Judy embraced life with warmth and generosity.

Her strong personal relationship with Jesus guided every aspect of her life. She and William attended services at United Protestant Church in Grayslake where they enjoyed their faith community and service opportunities. She lived out her faith through acts of kindness toward both people and animals alike. Her trust in heavenly promises brought peace to those who knew her best.

May Judith Ann “Judy” Ruhnke’s memory bring comfort to all who were touched by her love and light. A memorial gathering will be held 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM Friday, September 26, 2025, with a Celebration of Life service at 3:00  at the Symonds Lakes Funeral Home 111 W Belvidere Rd, Grayslake, IL 60030. Rev. William Stacy, officiating,

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations to be made to a charity close to Judy’s heart, K9s4U Dog Rescue Inc., 1710 Vale St., McHenry IL 60051. 

For additional information please contact the funeral home at 847-543-1080.

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