Ruth Defenbaugh

Ruth Ellen Defenbaugh, 77, of Ottawa, IL, passed away at her home on Saturday, September 5, 2026, surrounded by family.

Ruth graduated from Ottawa High School and was a bowler for many years, even making it to state. She and her husband, Ronald, enjoyed going to campgrounds where they would camp and canoe together. They also enjoyed taking motorcycle rides and making memories along the way.

Ruth loved being with her family and especially looked forward to family reunions and gatherings. She was a wonderful Grandma and Great Grandma and truly loved being in those roles. She cherished the time she spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and they brought her so much happiness. Ruth also shared a special bond with her daughter, Tracy, and especially enjoyed the time they spent together.

Ruth is survived by her daughter, Tracy Rhodes; sister, Jackie (Bob) Fowler; brothers, Ronald (Jean) Fleming and Thomas (Cheryl) Fleming; grandchildren, Ryan and Jamie Rhodes; great-grandchildren, Brendan and Brantley Olesen, Evelynn, Abby, and Isabella Grennan; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas Fleming and Dorothy Fleming; her husband, Ronald Defenbaugh; her brother, James (Peggy) Fleming; and her granddaughter, Kaitlynn Rhodes.