Ruthann Daiber

Ruthann Daiber, born on May 22, 1941, in Albers, Illinois, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on December 1, 2025, at her residence in New Memphis, Illinois. She leaves behind a cherished legacy defined by her unwavering dedication to her family and community.

Ruthann, a beloved wife to Charles Daiber, had the pleasure of sharing 65 wonderful years with him. Together, they were the proud owners of Charlie's East End Market in New Baden, which became a staple in the community under their care and commitment. Ruthann was also known for her compassionate nature, spending many years as a caregiver in the Home Care industry, where she touched the lives of many.

Family was at the heart of Ruthann's life. She was an enthusiastic supporter of her children—Susie (Bob) Oestringer, Patty Daiber, Marie (Ed) Diekemper, and Jim (Steph) Daiber—and all their pursuits. Whether it was traveling across the country to attend sports events or simply being a loving presence at family gatherings, Ruthann was always her family's biggest fan. Her pride and joy expanded to her grandchildren—Kim (Joey) McCario, Sarah (Kyle) Wehrle, Jessi (Brian) Damm, Brittany (Eric) Toon, Cameron Oestringer, Matt (Kryssi) Diekemper, Meaghan (Dakota) Fehrmann, and Karaghan Daiber—and great-grandchildren—Alayna McCario, Landen Damm, Aubrey McCario, Mallory Damm, Aria Wehrle, Sloane Toon, Addi Wehrle, Bryson Fehrmann, Jeremiah Diekemper, and Beckett Fehrmann. Each one brought her immense happiness and countless memories that she cherished throughout her life.

Ruthann will be remembered not only for her steadfast devotion to her family but also for her active involvement in the local community. She was a dedicated member of the New Baden Lions Club, New Baden American Legion Auxiliary, and St. George Church. Her contributions and zest for life enriched the lives of many around her.

Ruthann was preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Henrietta Kuhl; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Andrew and Sarah Daiber; her grandson, John Michael Dixon; and several siblings: sisters Bernetta (Charlie) Spaeth, Alice Campbell, Annette Middleton, and Martha Kuhl; brothers Bud (Pat) Kuhl, Urban (Kathy) Kuhl, Leroy Kuhl, and Red Kuhl; sister-in-law Barb Rakers, and brothers-in-law Paul Daiber, George (Margaret) Daiber, Leonard (Alice) Daiber, Alvin (Rochelle) Daiber, Cletus Bugger, and Les Mullen. 

She also leaves behind her sisters: Mary Mullen, Aggie (Gary) Huston; brothers: Ed (Betty) Kuhl, David (Bev) Kuhl, Mike Kuhl; sister-in-laws Doris Bugger and Renee Kuhl; and brother-in-laws Richard Campbell, Vernon Rakers, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Ruthann Daiber's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, laughter, and the joy of family. Her legacy will endure in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her generous spirit and boundless love.

Visitation will be held on December 4, 2025, from 8:00 AM until 10:30 AM at Nordike Funeral Home, 15 E Hanover St, New Baden, IL 62265, followed by a Mass at St. George Catholic Church, located at 200 North 3rd Street, New Baden, IL 62265, commencing at 11:00 AM. The service will be a heartfelt farewell to a remarkable woman who filled the lives of those around her with happiness and warmth.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois, St George Church, or New Baden Legion Ladies Auxiliary.  Memorials can be sent to Nordike Funeral Home of New Baden.