Charlene Ruedel

Charlene “Char” D. Ruedel, Age 79, of Cherry Valley, Illinois died July 5, 2023, at home surrounded by family after battling a long illness. Char was born on May 15th, 1944, in Brownwood, Texas to her parents, Charlotte and Robert Schraft Sr. She was the beloved wife of the late James Ruedel. Char’s life’s work was saving animals in need. Throughout her career in animal rescue, Char took hundreds of animals under her wing and gave them a happy and hopeful life. She worked with Dr. Seidenberg at River Woods Pet Clinic for many years, and managed Save-A-Pet animal shelter with her late husband until starting her own animal sanctuary. Her sanctuary, Pinehaven Farm, was designated a 501c3 nonprofit in 1999, and continues to serve rescue animals today. Char loved gardening and had an extensive knowledge of plants and flowers. Her unique flower arrangements won many awards at county fairs throughout Illinois and Wisconsin.  Char was a loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She is survived by her daughters Sharon Schneider-Laske and Lauren (William) Fedor, stepsons Michael Ruedel and Matthew Ruedel, grandchildren Bryce Fedor, Jaymee (Frances Downey) Fedor, Tyler Laske, and Kyle Laske, stepgrandchildren TJ, Alisha, and Kayla, great grandchildren Jailyn, Taleah, and Sigrid, and brother Robert (Janice) Schraft Jr.  She was preceded in death by her husband James Ruedel, son James Schneider, stepdaughter Lisa Ruedel, parents Charlotte and Robert Schraft Sr., brother William Schraft, and former spouse Marvin Schneider.  Char’s legacy will live on through the animals she has saved, and through those of us she’s inspired with her selflessness and devotion. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to Pinehaven Farm, 7401 S Mulford Rd, Cherry Valley, IL, or make a contribution in her name to your favorite no-kill animal shelter. A celebration of life will take place in her honor at a later date, to be announced by her family.
Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 6204 Forest Hills Rd., Loves Park. www.statelinecremations.com