Ruth A Santel

Ruth A. Santel, 79, of New Baden, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 5, 2025, at St. Louis University Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri. She was born on September 28, 1945, in Belleville, Illinois, to Harold and Clara (nee Kleboldt) Wright. She married Russel Santel July 27, 1968 at St. George Catholic Church in New Baden and he preceded her in death on February 8, 2021.

Ruth dedicated a significant part of her life to her career at St. Paul Nursing Home in Belleville, where she worked diligently in the office, making a positive impact on the lives of those around her. Her commitment to her work reflected her nurturing spirit and desire to care for others.

A devoted member of St. George Parish in New Baden, Ruth found joy in her faith and community. She had a passion for scrapbooking, a cherished hobby that allowed her to capture and preserve precious moments. Ruth also loved taking pictures, ensuring that every family gathering and special occasion was documented. Above all, she treasured the time spent with her grandchildren, who brought immense joy into her life. Ruth enjoyed having lunch with friends, relishing in the connections and memories they shared, and also sitting on the porch and visiting with her neighbors who were so important to her.

Ruth is survived by her children: Phillip (Sierra Cook) Santel, Richard (Keri) Santel, and Diane (David Ohl) Santel. She was the proud grandmother of Rusty (Nikki) Santel, Samantha (Mike Heath) Jolliff, Piper Santel, Mable Santel, Dalton (Ashley Kestner) Steinhauer, Kelli Santel, Ronny (Kristen Rulo) Santel, Kyle (Katie) Ohl, and Jacob (Emma) Ohl, along with 16 wonderful great-grandchildren. Ruth also leaves behind her sisters-in-law, Pat Wright, and June and Gary Davis, who will carry forward her legacy of love and kindness.

Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Russel Santel; her parents, Harold and Clara Wright; her brother, Harold Wright; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, James and Florence Santel; her brother-in-law, Ronald Santel; and her son's fiancée, Cynthia Steinhauer.

A visitation in Ruth's honor will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a Celebration of Life service starting at 11:00 AM at Nordike Funeral Home in New Baden. 

Memorials made in memory of Ruth may be made to Sons of Service or to the charity of the donor's choice and will be received at the funeral home.