Ruth Killinger (1930-2021)

KILLINGER

Posted By: Ken Wright (email)
Date: 10/22/2021 at 15:10:38

Ruth Killinger died peacefully on Friday night, October 15, 2021 at Ridgecrest Village at age 91.
Services will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, October 22, 2021 at Gibson-Bode Funeral Home, Port Byron, with visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in Oak Grove Cemetery, Port Byron. Memorials may be made to St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Bettendorf, or to Cancer Research.
Ruth graduated from Rutgers University then married Howard Killinger. In 1968, she earned her Master’s degree in Social Work at University of Iowa. She worked at the East Moline State Hospital, Bethany Home, and then became the Quad Cities’ first full time school social worker. She was employed by Silvis school district, but traveled to many rural schools like Riverdale in Port Byron, Barstow and Carbon Cliff to counsel kids there. In 1990, she received the Social Worker of the Year award from the National Association of Social Workers’ QC Chapter.
Ruth retired 30 years ago, then continued to worked part time as the Clerk for the city of Port Byron. Since retirement, Ruth has enjoyed traveling to 39 countries, and having many fun adventures with her grandkids.
Ruth leaves behind 4 children (Steve, Dave, Lisa and Laura), 14 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents Roy and “Muz” and two siblings Jack and Mary. She has two more living siblings Jane and Dave.
Ruth loved to ride roller coasters and could beat almost anyone at Scrabble. She was a bright, funny, energetic woman. She will be remembered fondly by so many people.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.gibsonbodefh.com

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