Beverly Verna (Ulmenstine) Ruda

Beverly Verna Ruda (nee Ulmenstine), age 73, of Palos Park, passed surrounded by her family on Wednesday, June 14th, 2023.   Beverly was an entrepreneur and self-starter who wore many hats in her long life.   She started and ran two successful video stores and a restaurant. She also worked at banks and golf courses and finished her career as a bookkeeper for Bulletproof Plumbing.

Beverly was born to parents George and Elsie Ulmenstine in Midlothian, IL. Beverly beautifully carried the legacy of her beloved family in all aspects of her life.

She is survived by her son, Brian (Martina) Ruda; daughter, Elizabeth (Dan) Dierking; grandchildren, Jackson “JD” Dierking and Annabelle Dierking; sisters, Karen (Fred) Danielewicz and Verna (Kevin) Anker; brother, Doug (Donna) Ulmenstine; as well as numerous cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, great nieces, and nephews. 

Preceded in death by her parents; brother Kenny Ulmenstine and his wife and her best friend Maryanne Ulmenstine.

Despite her bustling career life, Beverly found tranquility in flowers and gardening. She loved the outdoors and working in her garden.  Her flowers and beautiful backyard were where she liked to dedicate most of her time.  Beverly lived life on her own terms.  She was a strong woman and wanted to do things her way.

Beverly was always there for her family.  She loved coming from such a big extended family and would be there in any way she could.  Bev loved watching her grandchildren and never missed a game, performance, or event as they got older. She also loved her great nieces and nephews and would cook, bake, play games, tell stories, and make fairy houses in the garden with them whenever possible.

Inspired by one of her favorite movies Steal Magnolia’s she would often leave the room saying, “I love you more than my luggage”,  or to the kids she would say “I love you to the moon and back”.

To her beloved grandchildren, her nieces and nephews, great nieces, and nephews (even the ones who were not blood related) and extended family she was a beautiful soul who would love hard and was loved in return.

Beverly’s life remains an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her presence is missed, and her life was shared with many.

In honor of Beverly’s amazing life, we ask that in lieu of flowers please plant a flower or tree in your yard and hug your family.

The family is celebrating Beverly's life with a private service.

Services provided by Hayes Funeral & Cremation Services - Mark F. Cepon (Professional Licensed Funeral Director)

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Beverly Verna (Ulmenstine) Ruda, please visit our floral store.