Washington Evening Journal
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Obituaries
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Monday, July 14, 2025
Ruth L. Reif
Ruth L. Reif
New London
Ruth L. Reif, 101, of New London, passed peacefully at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington on July 10, 2025.
Born December 27, 1923, to Wilfred and Vera Beckman in Burlington, Iowa. On September 12, 1945, she married Loren E. Reif, and they made their home on the county line road just outside of New London.
She helped Loren on their dairy farm, was a seamstress for many years and volunteered at her church in Burlington.
Ruth and Loren had one child, Neil L. Reif, who died at birth. They later adopted their two nephews, Dave and Darcy Beckman.
Ruth loved working out in the yard and garden, baking, sewing, making quilts and traveling the country with Loren and the two boys.
She was a lifelong member of Faith Lutheran Church, now Unity Lutheran Church on Sunnyside.
She is survived by her adopted son Darcy Beckman of New London; six grandchildren, Bridget Beckman of Mt. Pleasant, Corey Beckman of Houston, TX, Phillip Beckman of Burlington, Sophie Tampio of New London, Matthew Beckman of New London and Jill Beckman of Mediapolis; and two great-grandchildren Takoda Farley of Mt. Pleasant and Owen Beckman of Houston, TX.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Loren, two sons Neil Reif and Dave Beckman, sister Erma Rodruck, and two brothers Earl Beckman and Ervin Beckman.
Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 16th at Unity Lutheran Church, Burlington. The funeral service will begin at 2:00 p.m. Burial will be held in Burlington Memorial Park Cemetery.
Online condolences may be made by visiting www.lunningfuneralchapel.com.