Ruth Bonsoe

Ruth Berg Bonsoe, 96, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family, on Saturday, June 24, 2023, at the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria, IL. She was born in Denmark; Ruth was a woman of resilience, kindness, and generosity who touched the lives of many with her thoughtful nature and love for life.

Ruth was preceded in death by her loving husband, John O. Bonsoe, with whom she shared a beautiful life until his passing on September 16, 1999. She is survived by her son, John Bonsoe (Mary Alice), of Metamora, IL, and her daughter, Judy Spencer (James), of Ormond Beach, FL. She was a proud grandmother to Keri Lee (Matthew) of Lexington, KY, Timothy Bonsoe (Lisa) of Washington, IL, Peter Willard (Melissa) of Holly Hill, FL, and Katherine Bailey (James) of Deland, FL. Ruth was also blessed with great-grandchildren Allison and Evan Bonsoe, Jade and James Bailey, Cecilia, and Vivian Lee, who brought her immense joy and happiness.

In 1957, Ruth, a native of Denmark, immigrated to the United States with her family. They settled in Marengo, Illinois, and owned and operated the Marengo Greenhouse Florist. Later, they moved to Destin, FL, where they owned and operated a motel in Crystal Beach. Ruth's work ethic and dedication were evident in her successful businesses, and she was well-respected in her community.

Ruth was a woman of faith. She was baptized Lutheran but became a United Methodist after immigrating to the USA. Her faith was a guiding force in her life, and she lived by the principles of love, kindness, and generosity. Ruth had a passion for sewing, cross-stitching, and knitting. She loved to travel and explore new places. She was also an animal lover and had a special fondness for all kinds of flowers. Ruth had an incredible green thumb and was able to make orchid plants bloom for months and rebloom every year.

Ruth was known for her kindness and generosity. She loved to share her flowers with others, spreading joy and beauty wherever she went. She was always optimistic and kind, even in the face of adversity. Ruth loved her 3 o'clock afternoon coffee and cookie and had a sweet tooth for chocolate. Her love for life and positive attitude were infectious, and she had a lasting impact on everyone she met. 

As the famous quote by Maya Angelou goes, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Ruth embodied this sentiment. She made people feel loved, valued, and special. All who knew her will remember her kindness, generosity, and thoughtfulness.

Ruth was a remarkable woman who lived a whole and meaningful life. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy of love, kindness, and generosity will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A time to celebrate her life will be at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to, We Care Inc., 622 W. Jackson St., Morton, Illinois 61550, or the Multiple Sclerosis Association at https://www.engage.mymsaa.org. To share a memory or send a condolence to her family, visit www.peoriafuneral.com. Affordable Funeral & Cremation Services of Central Illinois is assisting the family with arrangements.

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