Mary Elizabeth "Betsy" Ruklick

She was born in Delaware, OH, on November 24, 1937, the daughter of Grant and Elizabeth (Myers) Benjamin.

Betsy earned her bachelor's degree from Northwestern University. She went on to teach elementary school for many years in the suburbs of Chicago and later retired from the Northbrook School District. Betsy was compassionate and loved animals and children. She found great joy in her friendships, old and new, and deeply treasured her dear friend, Bob Bradford. Betsy cherished being a grandma and it showed!

She was preceded in death by her parents; stepmother, Ruth West Benjamin; son, John Ruklick; and sister, Gail Benjamin.

Betsy is survived by her sons, Grant Ruklick of Chicago and Charles Ruklick of Northbrook; daughter-in-law, Marilyn Ruklick; grandchildren, Grace (Blaise) Vogt of Deerfield and Lily Ruklick of Chicago; and great-grandchildren, Jonathan “JR” Vogt and Elsie Ann Vogt.

Cremation was provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center.

Private inurnment will be held at Memorial Garden at Westminster Presbyterian Church.

Memorial contributions may be made to Animal Protective League or Make-A-Wish.

The family is being served by Boardman-Smith Funeral Home, 800 S. Grand Ave., West, Springfield.