Ruth Marie Krause Maicke, age 99, of Cary, IL, passed peacefully on December 29, 2025, just five days short of the big 100!

Born January 3, 1926 in Cary, IL to her loving parents, August “Gussie” and Amelia (Bloner) Kraus, and the eldest of four (siblings, Gene, Therese, and George), Ruth lived her entire life in Cary and was deeply rooted in her faith and community. She was a devoted member of Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, where she attended grade school, played both the piano and organ from youth well into her 80s for mass, services, and pleasure, and was a beloved member of the church choir. Her music was a constant presence in the lives of many. She attended high school at Sacred Heart Academy.

Ruth married Herman Maicke of Barrington, IL in April, 1948, and together they raised three children (Sandi, Laura, and Doug) in the home and life they built together. Their marriage was based on faith, laughter, and an enduring partnership and respect.

Throughout her life, Ruth remained active in the Cary community, serving as president of the Cary Area Book Club and as a proud member of the Ss. Peter & Paul Women’s Club. She found joy in music and reading, and in the relationships which she cultivated over the years.

Ruth always said, “I was blessed with a wonderful family and had a good life,” a reflection of the deep gratitude with which she lived. Her warmth, grace, and unwavering kindness touched all who knew her.

She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to share in her life.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and two brothers. She is survived by her sister and best friend, Therese Ireland; her children, Sandi Cook, Laura (David) Reid, and Douglas Maicke; eight grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be 5:00pm to 8:00pm, with rosary at 6:00pm, Friday, January 16, 2026, at Kahle-Moore Funeral Home, 403 Silver Lake Road, Cary, IL 60013.

Mass will be at 11:00am, Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, 410 N. First Street, Cary, IL 60013. Rev. Keith Romke will be officiating.

Interment to follow at Windridge Memorial Park, 7014 S. Rawson Bridge Road, Cary, IL 60013.

Final arrangements entrusted to Kahle-Moore Funeral Home. For more information, call 847-639-3817.