Elsie M. Rukes

Elsie M. Rukes, 89, of Topeka, passed away on Sunday, March 23, 2014 at Midland Hospice House in Topeka. She was born November 13, 1924 in Lyndon, KS, the daughter of Earl and Erma Frazier Mickelson.

Elsie graduated from Lyndon High School. She was employed by the State of Kansas for 20 years before retiring. She was a member of Al-Anon for over 40 years.

Elsie married Jack Rukes on December 24, 1945 in Overbrook. He preceded her in death on December 22, 1999. She was also preceded in death by grandson, Daniel Rukes in 1989, sister, Earla Jo and brother-in-law, Arthur Hoover. Survivors include her children, Lorene & Bill Krimson of New Jersey, Paul & Deonn Rukes of Perry and Dan & Debra Rukes of Overbrook, grandchildren, Bill, Jr., Sandy, Candice, Joshua and Mike and eight great-grandchildren. Also surviving are siblings, Ella Hoover and Eleene & Dale Newton of Topeka.

Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, March 31, 2014 at Penwell-Gabel Southeast Chapel. Burial will follow in Richland Cemetery southeast of Topeka. Elsie will lie in state and the family will receive friends from 4:00 -6:00 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Helping Hands Humane Society, 5720 SW 21st St., Topeka, KS 66604 or to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312.