Ann "Ms. Ann"

Runkle

Ann “Ms. Ann” Runkle, 90, of Freeport, IL, passed away Saturday November 14. 2026 at Citadel at St. Joseph Village, Freeport, Il. She was born February 2, 1936 in Forreston, IL, the daughter of Thomas and Irene (Brockmeier) Koning.

Ann married Junior Runkle June 16, 1962 in Forreston, IL; he passed away August 3, 1989.

Ann graduated from Northern Illinois University with a Bachelor of Science. She was a 1st grade teacher at Lincoln School for six years and later worked at Amity Daycare for 30+ years. She enjoyed playing the organ for North Grove Evangelical Church for 57 years. She was also a member of the Silver Creek Unit of Stephenson County Association for Home and Community Education for 57 years.

Ann is survived by her son, Thomas Runkle of Mantua, NJ; and daughter, Cherie (Jeff) Ellis of New Market, VA; grandchildren, Gavin Ellis, Katahdin Ellis, Noah (Tyler) Ellis, Shenandoah Ellis and Zebediah Ellis; great grandchildren, Wolf Milacci, Glacier Milacci, Remus Milacci, Laurel Ellis, Milena Ellis; niece and nephews.

Ann was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and sisters, Norma Koning and Mary (Earl) Hayunga.

Funeral services will be 10:30 AM Tuesday November 17. 2026 at North Grove Evangelical Church, Forreston, IL. Visitation will be from 5-7:00 PM Monday November 16, 2026 at Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home, 504 N, Walnut Ave. Freeport, IL. Burial will be in North Grove Evangelical Cemetery.