Muriel Jean Luehr

Muriel Jean Luehr passed away on July 7, 2016 at Ripon Medical Center in Ripon WI at the age of 87. Muriel was born on September 30, 1928 in Chicago, IL, the daughter of Frank and Grace Smith. Muriel is survived by daughter Cheryl (Larry) Flaatten of Burlington, IA and daughter Gayle (Marla Janes) Luehr of Berlin, WI; step children, step grandchildren, step great grandchildren and several nephews and nieces. She is preceded in death by her parents and one brother (Jack Smith). As a young child Muriel was a ballet and tap dancer and performed in numerous venues, including the World’s Fair in Chicago at the age of 5. She graduated from Fenger High School in Chicago and attended the University of Dubuque. After college Muriel lived in Merrionette Park, IL. until moving to Lombard in 1962 with her daughters. Muriel took pride in maintaining her beautiful home and flower gardens throughout her yard. She started work in 1969 at Glen Westlake Jr High in Lombard, IL in the library, and then spent most of her working career at District 88 where she was an administrative assistant for the Assistant Superintendent until her retirement in 1997. She loved to travel and participated in over 25 Elderhostel’s throughout the world. She never turned down the opportunity to travel abroad, enjoying the history and culture of each country. Muriel was very involved in the Lombard Service League for a number of years, including serving on the board. Muriel was once named the “Woman of the Year” for the LSL. Muriel also volunteered at a local community service organization called Love Letters, which sent letters to sick young people all over the area. Her passion and service to these organizations was a demonstration of her commitment to help others. Following a stroke in 2006 she moved to Bickford Assisted Living Residence in Burlington, IA living close to Cheryl. Muriel played an intregral part in the production of the “Blog” which was a weekly newsletter for residents and staff. Muriel moved to Patriot Place Assisted Living Residence in Berlin, WI in 2011 to be close to Gayle. She enjoyed helping with common gardens, car rides and local entertainment. Muriel was kind, gentle, thoughtful, and a role model of strength, independence, determination and enjoyed helping others. Memorials can be made to Lombard Service League or a charity of your choice. Or by simply carrying on Muriel’s legacy of helping others by doing something kind for someone…family member, friend, neighbor, or complete stranger. Muriel would smile upon that. A private burial service will be held by her daughters. A “Celebration of Life” gathering will be held in Lombard at the Lombard Community Building located at 433 E. St. Charles on August 19th 6-8 pm. Join the family for dessert and fellowship to celebrate Muriel’s life.

Muriel Jean Luehr

September 30, 1928 - July 7, 2016