Carol Rueckert, 94

Carol (Lott) Rueckert, age 94, of Sturgis, passed away Sunday, Feb. 14, at Thurston Woods Village in Sturgis.
She was born April 19, 1926, in Heyworth, Ill., a daughter of the late Halley A. and Anna (Jensen) Lott.
On Aug. 28, 1949, she married the late Richard P. Rueckert. They were married for 67 years and resided in Kankakee, Ill., Terre Haute, Ind., and Indianapolis before moving to Sturgis in 1966.
Carol graduated from University of Illinois in 1948 with a BA in history. As a college student and part of The Greatest Generation, Carol was active in YWCA and efforts to assist college students in the French Underground during World War II. After the war, she attended World Congress of the International Student Services Organization and toured war-ravaged Europe. She started her teaching career in 1948 and later earned a master’s degree from Indiana State University.
A generation of Sturgis High School students recall Mrs. Rueckert, especially the course she implemented, Living in Today’s World, and fondly remember ILAC (I am Lovable and Capable). Carol was dedicated to promoting civility, diversity and inclusion and empowering students to become productive citizens.
In 1996, Carol was recognized as Sturgis Citizen of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce. She was active in many teaching and civic organizations, and served on the boards of Sturges-Young Auditorium, Thurston Woods Village and Sturgis Senior Center (GAP). She also was an active member of Sturgis Historical Society, Sister City Exchange with Weisloch, Germany, and First Presbyterian Church. An avid reader and traveler, she and Dick enjoyed many Elderhostel and travel adventures in retirement.
Carol is survived by two daughters, Anne (Dave) Brunson of Grasonville, Md., and Sally (Don) Baldwin of Howe, Ind.; a granddaughter, Katie (Andy) Blieden of Louisville, Ky.; and two great-grandchildren, Addison Blieden and Jake Blieden.
Carol was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Edward (who died in infancy) and F. Bert Lott; and by her husband, Richard Rueckert.
A private memorial service for immediate family will be held at a later date.
Hackman Chapel of Hackman Family Funeral Homes in Sturgis is entrusted with arrangements.
The family suggests those wishing to make a memorial donation in Carol’s memory consider Sturgis Historical Society, 101 South Jefferson St., Sturgis, MI 49091; or First Presbyterian Church, 1320 Lakeview Ave., Sturgis, MI 49091.
Her obituary is also at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com, where relatives and friends may share memories and leave condolences for the family.