We drove to Shannon for Janet's sister's Memorial Service and then on to Stockton to visit Grandma Jones and the rest of the Townsend Clan.  While in Stockton, we took photos of the Stockton Cheese plant for Daren who has a new position with Kraft as a Dairy Planner.

Rita Lynn Ruter, 47, of Baileyville, a loving wife and mother, left her earthly home on Wednesday, March 21, 2012 to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ following an extended illness. Rita was born on February 3, 1965 in Savanna, Illinois, the daughter of Leroy and Doris (Alt) Sweitzer. Rita was a 1984 graduate of Rockford Baptist High School and a graduate of Bob Jones University in 1988. On July 7, 1990 Rita married Gary M. Ruter in Shannon. Rita was a member of Shannon Baptist Church. Rita taught 1st year kindergarten in Hays, Kansas, and also Open Bible in Freeport, and most recently worked at FHN in medical records. Rita had a wonderful cell phone ministry, reaching out and encouraging many people with her prayers and singing. Music was a very important part of her life, and she especially enjoyed singing hymns at Church. Survivors include her husband Gary Ruter; son; Daniel Ruter, daughter; Julie Ruter, both of Baileyville, two brothers; Ken (Jean) Sweitzer of Lanark and Richard (Kay) Sweitzer also of Lanark; three sisters, JoAnn(Keith) Vandermyde of Lanark, Kathy (Bill) Schall of Mt. Carroll and Janet (Tom) Townsend of Stockton, and also several nieces and nephews. Rita was preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Carol. Cremation rites have been accorded. A celebration of Life for Rita will be Sunday March 25, 2012 at Shannon Baptist Church lower level; from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Memorial Services will be 10:30 A.M. Monday March 26, at Shannon Baptist Church with Pastor Tim Lehman officiating. In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established in Rita’s memory. The family would like to offer special thanks to all of Rita’s caregivers and personal assistants during her years of illness.

This floral arranngement was provided by Grandma Jones and was at the entry to the nave of the church.

Altar arrangements

This billboard at the entry of Stockton Cheese, Inc. marks the location of the originial Kraft Cheese Factory, where it all began almost 100 years ago.  Stockton is planning a celebration for Kraft's 100th anniversary in Stockton for 2014. 

Stockton Cheese, Inc. is owned by Brewster Dairy, Brewster, Ohio.  Swiss cheese is made here and then cut, repackaged, and sold as Kraft.

Jerry, Franny, and I enjoying breakfast at LePeep for Franny's 95th birthday.



"A rose among the thorns."  Elections judges:  Elizabeth, Erna, Carolyn; back:  Mary Ann, Jerry