Miriam Henrietta Ruth Reimnitz

Miriam Henrietta Ruth Reimnitz, age 94, of Freeport, Illinois, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, January 8, 2026.

She was born on August 30, 1931, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Otto and Ottilie (Thraum) Reimnitz. St. Louis was always home to Miriam, a place she loved deeply and spoke of often. Her affection for the city, its people, and its traditions remained a constant throughout her life.

At the age of 24, Miriam began her career with Crane Industries, where she remained a loyal and valued employee for an extraordinary 61 years. Known for her strong work ethic, dependability, and quiet dedication, Miriam took great pride in her work. In recognition of her remarkable tenure and the respect she earned from her colleagues, she was nominated by her fellow employees to ring the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange—an honor celebrating her as the longest-running employee and a treasured member of the Crane Industries team.

Miriam found great joy in serving others and in staying closely connected to the city she loved. She volunteered for many years as an usher at the Fox Theatre in St. Louis, where she delighted in welcoming guests and enjoying the many performances she was able to attend. She had a creative spirit and enjoyed working with ceramics, as well as spending time reading and solving puzzles. A devoted sports fan, Miriam was a lifelong and enthusiastic supporter of the St. Louis Cardinals, a passion that reflected her enduring pride in her hometown.

Her faith was an important part of her life, and she was active in her Bible study group in St. Louis, finding strength and community through shared worship and fellowship. Miriam also had a tender heart for animals and was an avid dog lover.

Miriam was the last surviving member of her generation. She was preceded in death by her parents, Otto and Ottilie Reimnitz; her brothers, Alwin, Theodore (Ted), and Paul; and her sisters, Lois Scholz and Eunice Metz.

She leaves behind a loving legacy in the lives of her 17 nieces and nephews, as well as many grand-nieces, grand-nephews, and great-nieces and nephews, all of whom will remember her with deep affection, gratitude, and admiration.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, January 23 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Freeport, IL with Pastor Zachary Klatt officiating. Visitation will be from 9:00 am until the time of service. Burial will be at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens in St. Louis on Saturday, January 24 at 1:00 pm.

Rooted in her love for St. Louis, sustained by her faith, and surrounded by the family who cherished her, Miriam’s life was a quiet testament to devotion, kindness, and enduring grace.