Ruth M. Scheltens (nee Garnaat)

Ruth M. Scheltens, 74, of Round Lake Beach, IL passed away on January 7, 2022. Ruth was born on March 12 of 1947 in Kalamazoo, MI, and was the daughter of Russell and Melia Garnaat. She was one of the eleven children her parents had. Ruth has been the “Matriarch” for siblings and the extended family in Michigan. She lived with her sister Pat in Chicago in the 1970s where she met her husband Charles (Chuck) Scheltens. They were married for 47 years and lived in their lifelong home in Northern Illinois until her passing.

Ruth worked at Abbott Laboratories and then Hospira for over 30 years in customer service before retiring. She was admired by all for her strong work ethic and amazing sense of humor. Ruth always smiled no matter what she was going through in life. Her parents raised her to be humble and charitable. She is known for giving to all before herself. Some of the things she is most remembered for are her love of Hymns, playing her organ, or a church piano for Sunday services. Ruth will be missed by so many across the midwest; family, friends, and loved ones. For the last several years she has enjoyed spending her days vacationing and relaxing with her husband Chuck. They enjoyed eating out at local restaurants together and she focused on taking care of him and his healthcare needs.

Ruth is survived by her Beloved husband “Chuck” Scheltens and their five children; Andrew (Jessica), Phillip (Lola), Matthew (Melinda “Mindy”), Amanda (Travis) Foy, and Bethany (Matt Loiacano). As well as survived by her grandchildren: Gwendolyne, Christopher, Kaitlyne, Jessalynn, Andrew Jr, Andreanna, Trina, Addelyn, Jay, and Titus, Reagan and Truman Scheltens; Eli, Amelia, Noah, and Natalie Foy; Olivia and Mark Martinello. She is survived by her remaining Garnaat siblings; Russ Jr, Kenny, Albert, Jimmy, Priscilla Followell, Sharon Pickett, and Bette Powell.

Both of Ruth’s parents and siblings Patricia, Ernestine & Harold Garnaat preceded her in death.

“Her children arise up and call her blessed; Her husband also, and he praiseth her.”

Celebration of Life will be held at Northern Illinois Funeral Services in Volo, IL. 31632 N. Ellis Drive, Unit 209, Volo, IL Thursday, January 20, 2022 visitation will be from 4-7 pm. Funeral Services will be private Friday January 21, 2022. You may join the family for burial at Noon at Windridge Cemetery in Cary, IL.