Ruth D. Opitz

A Memorial Service will be held for Ruth Dorothy Opitz, 102, at the Ahlgrim Family Funeral Home, 201 N. Northwest Hwy, Palatine, on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at 1:00 PM. The Interment will be private.

Ruth, a beloved aunt and friend, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2025.

Born on August 2, 1922, in Petosky MI, Ruth was the second of five children of Rev. William and Lillian Opitz. The church called Rev. Opitz to Ludington MI, where Ruth attended Ludington High School, played string bass in the high school band, and graduated in 1940. She later attended Howell’s School of Business in Muskegon, MI.

During WWII, Ruth worked in the War Department in Washington DC as a secretary and administrative assistant to the Chief, Aircraft Distribution Branch, Col. Charles W. Newhall, Jr. She later transitioned to a career with United Airlines, until her retirement.

Ruth was a longtime member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Palatine, IL. She served many years in the Altar Guild and enjoyed being part of The Over 50’s Group. She was well-loved for being so kind and caring to others.

She is survived by seven adoring nieces and nephews: Christine Moritz (J.R), Rob (Sharon), John (Debbie), Adena, Matt Burtner (Cheryl), Suzi (Ross Carmack), Cheryl Herring (Alan), and Stephanie Wallace (Rich); 13 great nieces and nephews: Steven, Aaron, Jonathan, Kayla, Christopher, Kate, Liz, Molly, Drew, Matthew, Michael, Jeff, and Jack; and, 12 great-great nieces and nephews: Mason, Nora, Alania, David, Anthony, Andrew, Mogan, Ray, Raleigh, Lydia, Ellie, and Elise.

She was preceded in death by her parents: brothers, Carl and wife, Mary; Herbert; Harold and wife, Margaret; sister, Helen and husband, Bruce Burtner; fiancé Lt. Elmer Ehlers; nephews, Steve and Carl (Adena); special friend, George Walter; and lifelong friend, Marge Bobbitt.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Parkinsons Foundation.