Published on August 22, 2026 11:21 am
Last Updated on August 22, 2026 11:25 am
Karen Marie Rueter age 61, of Effingham passed away Saturday, August 15, 2026, at HSHS St. Anthony Memorial Hospital, Effingham, Illinois.
Cremation rites be accorded to Ms. Rueter. No formal services are planned at this time.
Karen was born on September 29, 1964, in Effingham, Illinois the daughter of Robert and Elsie (Ashley) Rueter, Sr. Karen worked for many years as a certified nurses’ aide and later in the Martin’s IGA bakery.
In her free time, Karen enjoyed listening to the music of the Bee Gee’s, watching movies and playing games. She loved to play marbles and games on her phone. She loved cooking and was known for her deviled eggs and cookies, especially her sugar and no-bakes. She loved Hunter’s service dog, Iggy, and loved having him in their home.
To her children, she was the best mom. Although a bit stubborn at times, she loved them with the kindest heart and taught them all perseverance. She loved having visitors, especially when the grandkids came to visit. Family time was special to Karen. When the family couldn’t be together, she kept track of them all with her late-night phone calls, which will be forever missed.
Karen will be loved and remembered by her children, Jessica Marie (Steven) Cook of Effingham, Shannon Hebert of Noble, Megan Hebert of Vandalia and Hunter Crabtree of Effingham; six grandchildren, Joshua McWhorter, Bradley Austin, Jr., Hayley Austin, Anna Cobix, Maya Cobix, and Isaiah Hebert; great grandchild, Mateo Cobix; siblings, Rick (Marilyn) Rueter of Branson, MO, Brenda Rueter of Indiana and twin brother Kevin (Belinda) Rueter of Louisville and several nieces and nephews.
Her parents, granddaughter Ashely McWhorter and brother Bobby Rueter, Jr. preceded her in death.
Online condolences may be offered at www.crainfuneral.com.