Ruth L. "Perry" Appelhans, age 103, a resident of the DuPage Convalescent Center in Wheaton, IL, died Saturday, March 15, 2014, at the DuPage Convalescent Center. She was born March 12, 1911 in Chicago, IL.

Perry moved to Wheaton in 1950 and then to Glen Ellyn in the 1980's. She worked in the area for a number of years as a secretary and was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Glen Ellyn. She also volunteered at Gary United Methodist Church in the Wesley Resale Shop, and worked as an Elections Judge for the Democratic party since the 1950's.

She is survived by her daughter, Alice (Robert) Richards of Wheaton, IL, and her son, Thomas L. Appelhans of North Aurora, IL; her grandchildren, Renelle Richards (Duane) Ulrich, Robin Richards (Michael) Vallee, R. Thomas (Christine) Richards and David A. (Kristen) Richards, and Amy Appelhans (Greg) Gubser and Alyson Appelhans (Rick) Barger; 12 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter.

She was preceded in death by her husband, LeRoy G. Appelhans; her son, William Appelhans; her sister; and her brothers.

Services and interment are private.

Memorial gifts may be directed to the First Presbyterian Church of Glen Ellyn , 550 N. Main St., Glen Ellyn, IL 60137; or to Gary United Methodist Church , 224 N. Main St., Wheaton, IL 60187.