This memorial website was created in the memory of Betty L. "Louie" Ripsch who was born in Peoria, Illinois on June 27, 1937 and passed away on January 20, 2009 at the age of 71. We will remember her forever.

     Betty L. “Louie” Ripsch, 71, of Peoria, passed away at 1:22 a.m. on Tuesday, January 20, 2009, at home.

     Betty was born on June 27, 1937 in Peoria, daughter of Robert B. and Bessie M. (Sill) Mudd. They preceded her in death, along with her best friend, Billye V. Gilbert.

     She is survived by her son, Robert D. (Lynn Williams) Ripsch of Pekin; daughter, Tamara L. (Wayne G. Gibson) Ripsch of Peoria; two grandchildren; five great grandchildren; and numerous cousins.

     She was a shipping and receiving clerk for L.R. Nelson in Peoria for twenty-one years, retiring on January 20, 2004. She was employed part-time with Professional Maintenance, now Vonachen Services. She was formerly employed with Slevin Container, now Miller Container. After graduating from Woodruff High School, she was the first female draftsman at CILCO.

     Betty was a member of the Unity Church of Peoria, for over twenty years and was an honorary member of Peoria Women in Military.

     Betty enjoyed attending auctions and flea markets, watching television, fishing, collecting Chokin Art and spending time with her dog. She enjoyed listeing to the Blues, but especially like Rod Stewart and Koko Taylor, the Queen of the Blues.

     She loved her family, was always there for them and enjoyed spending as much time with them as she could. She will be remembered as a proud, kind-hearted, honest and generous woman.

     Visitation will be from 3 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, January 24, 2009, at Clary Funeral Home in Peoria. Cremation rites will be accorded, following the visitation. Interment of the cremated remains will be in Lutheran Cemetery in Peoria.

     Memorial contributions may be made in Betty’s memory to Neighborhood House in Peoria or T.A.P.S. in Pekin.

     Betty’s Memorial Website and online condolences may be accessed at www.ClaryFunerals.com.