Ruth Feiker Obituary

Mrs. William G. Feiker (Ruth Morrison) resident of Batavia, IL and previously of St. Charles, IL and Wayne, IL died March 28, 2010. She was born in Newton, MA to parents James J. Morrison and Charlotte (Whinery) Morrison. The family moved to Worcester, MA when she was young. Being an ardent Girl Scout, camper and hiker, she earned her Golden Eagle Award when in High School. Her family was musical and she was encouraged to study an instrument. During High School years, Ruth commuted to Boston Symphony. When a senior she informed her family that she was not talented enough to become a professional musician. She entered Wheelock College, Brookline, MA and graduated in 1940 with a degree in Education. Her first teaching position was at the Taconic School, Great Barrington, MA. It was during World War II, when she moved to Washington, D.C. to teach at the well known Potomac School. She also continued her interest in scouting as a leader of a Girl Scout Troop. She was named Head of the Middle School two years later. While in Washington, Lady Baden Powell of Great Britain's Girl Guides was scheduled for a visit to Washington, even though it was war time. The news was exciting for the U.S. Scouts. Mrs. Feiker was appointed to train the honor guard for the flag raising ceremony for Lady Baden Powell at the National Cathedral grounds. Spring 1946, Lt. William G. Feiker, Ruth's betrothed, arrived home from the Pacific Theater. They married in June 1946 and began life in Rye, N.Y., a suburb of New York City. In 1962 they moved to Illinois, a transfer for her husband. Wayne, IL was their home for 25 years. When a daughter went off to college, Ruth decided to study again. She received a BS in Library Science, Education from Northern Illinois University. The next step was Librarian at Lowell School, Wheaton, IL. Mrs. Feiker was a long time member of Geneva Congregational Church. She spent about fifteen years as church historian. She was honored as an Elder Eremitus. She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, a daughter, Gretchen, brothers James and David, and several sisters and brothers-in-laws. She is survived by eleven nieces and nephews. Services will be held April 17, 2010 at 2:00 P.M. at Geneva Congregational Church, 321 Hamilton St., Geneva, IL 60134. Contributions may be made to Memorial Garden at the Church. Arrangements made by Yurs Funeral Home, 405 E. Main St., St. Charles, IL 60174. 630-584-0060. www.yursfuneralhomes.com