Belvidere, IllinoisRuth S. Lear, 85, of Belvidere, Illinois died Monday morning, February 26, 2007 in OSF St. Anthony Medical Center after a short illness. Ruth was born November 16, 1921, at home in rural Belvidere, the daughter of Walter J. and Mable (Crawford) Swanson. She attended Davis School and graduated from Belvidere High School in 1939. Ruth was active in grange and high school activities. After graduation she went to work for a local jeweler, Russel R. Mange. She married Robert Lear on January 25, 1943 in Pensacola, FL where Bob had just received his Gold Navy Wings. With the Navy the couple traveled extensively all over the United States. After leaving the Navy the couple lived in Kansas City where Bob attended Kansas City School of Watch Making. They returned home in 1949 and bought the jewelry store where she began her career. They operated the store which was a Belvidere Landmark for 43 years. Ruth was a charter member and president of the Zonta Club of Belvidere. She was a past president of the Highland Hospital Auxiliary for many years, running the gift shop. Ruth devoted much time and energy to the Boone County Historical Society, Boone County Fair and was Chairman of the Belvidere Sesquicentennial Celebration.Survivors include her husband, Bob; twin daughters, Sally Tirrell of Norman , OK, Sherry Lindquist of Belvidere; grandsons, Erik (Collins) Lindquist, Adam Lindquist, Perry (Laura) Tirrell, Jeremy (Deanna) Tirrell; sister in-law, Grace Adele Long of Rockford.Ruth is predeceased by her parents, and sister, Benita Andersen.

In lieu of flowers, memorial can be given to the Boone County Historical Society in Ruth's memory.