Vernon R. Ruthe, age 81 of Freeport, IL, passed away Friday, February 10, 2017 at the Stephenson Nursing Center in Freeport. He was born September 16, 1935 in Baileyville, IL; the son of the late Carl and Fannie (Wubbena) Ruthe. He was a 1953 graduate of Forreston High School. He then attended Wheaton College and graduated from the Rockford School of Business. Vernon married Sharon Schwarze on October 22, 1960.

He was the Business Manager for Freeport High School from 1961 to 1967 and retired from Big A Auto Parts. After retiring, Vernon worked part-time for Walker Mortuary in Freeport. He was an active member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Freeport. He was also a member of the Golden K' Kiwanis. Vernon loved all sports and was an avid Chicago Cubs fan.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon Ruthe of Freeport; son, Joel (Tricia) Ruthe of Freeport; grandsons, Nolan, Evan, & Gatlen Ruthe; four step-grandchildren, Rachael (Ben) Lewellen, Matthew (Jessica) Bardell, Michael Bardell and Jacob Bardell; sister-in-law, Marcella Ruthe; and two nieces, Judy (Dan) Holder and Jacquelyn (Jim) England. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Robert.

The funeral service will be held Monday, February 13th at 11:00 am at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Freeport. There will be a visitation before the service beginning at 9:00 am. Interment will take place at Oakland Cemetery in Freeport. A memorial fund has been established for Immanuel Lutheran Church.