Irene Rutten

Irene Rutten, 91, of Arbor Vitae, went to be with her lord on Tuesday, September 2, 2025 at her home. She is survived by her six children, 15 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, and numerous family members.

Irene was born in DeKalb, Ill. before moving to Plainfield, Ill. at the age of 7. While riding on a homecoming float, she was approached by Don and asked for a date to the homecoming dance that evening. He was home on leave at the time. That was the beginning of a special love. She was kept busy for many years taking care of their six children, which ended up being a handful at times.

After Don retired, they spent a lot of time traveling the country. Irene was always reading and loved maps. She was very inquisitive. She loved history and wanted to visit as many places as she could. Her special place was Prince Edward Island in Canada where they visited on several occasions. In 2011, they moved to St. Germain, where they had a home since 1974. Shortly after, they realized that they should have moved here years earlier.

Irene was always active serving the lord where needed. While not completely sure of when she trusted Jesus as her personal savior, she loved and served him most of her life. She was truly a servant who enjoyed cleaning, preparing meals, and teaching children. Irene was a member of Faith Evangelical Free Church in Woodruff.

Visitation will be held Monday, Sept. 8, from 1 until the service at 2 p.m. at Nimsgern Funeral Home, Woodruff. Refreshments will be served, followed by burial in St. Patrick’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to New Dawn Pregnancy Center, Woodruff.

Online condolences may be shared at www.nimsgernfuneral.com. Nimsgern Funeral & Cremation Services is serving the family.