Ruth Elaine Muraski

Ruth Elaine Muraski,90, Rockford, passed away peacefully after a brief illness on August 28 at Rockford Memorial Hospital surrounded by her loving family. Ruth was born in Rockford on December 5, 1919, to William Zitterell and Naomi May (Smith) Hammerstein. She graduated from Rockford Central High School in 1936. Ruth married Walter Edwin Muraski on November 9, 1940. They were life-long residents of Rockford's west side, and together they founded Northern Illinois Electric, Inc. Ruth held many various jobs throughout her life, taking the most joy in being with her family. She maintained her membership in the Girl Scouts of the USA for her whole life, after passing the "First Class" tests to lead ("Captain" ) her first Brownie troop at age 16.Ruth is survived by her seven children: Naomi (Jim) Patnode, Walter "Bud," Jr. (Jackie) Muraski, Stan (Sandra) Muraski, William "Bill" (Ardele) Muraski, Margaret "Peggy" (Greg) Luter, Mary-Alice (Stan) Schraufnagel, and Paul (Susan) Muraski; 20 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Margaret Schlickman; brother-in-law Richard (Beattie) Muraski; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, step-mother Alice, brother John, brothers-in-law John R. (Katie) Muraski and Thomas (Caroline) Muraski. The family wishes to thank Char and Cathy, her home personal caregivers, and the staff of RMH, especially Dusty and Carole for their outstanding care and attention. Funeral Service Wednesday, September 1 at 1:30 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Riverside chapel 3910 N Rockton Ave. Visitation Wednesday in the funeral home from 11:00 a.m. until time of service. In lieu of flowers, memorials to be established by the family.