Erna Boehne passed away peacefully on Friday, April 11, 2025, at the age of 92, at Trenton Village in Trenton, IL. Erna was born on December 11, 1932, in Ferrin, IL, to the late Ernest and O’Linda (Tyberendt) Rueter. She was united in marriage to Charlie Boehne on December 12, 1954, in her hometown of Ferrin. Mr. Boehne preceded her in death on February 18, 2007.
Erna is survived by her loving daughters, Kathie Knuf of Breese, and Krista Miller and husband John of St. Louis; her adoring grandchildren, Erin Robert and husband Tyler, Jamie Mahlandt and husband Chris, Lindsey Tucker and husband Joel, Spencer Miller and wife Crystal, and Taylor Shannon and husband Colin; as well as her cherished 12 great-grandchildren, Ben, Nick, Drew, Evan, Jackson, Jake, Beckett, Charlie, Parker, Mason, Maddie, and Brooks. Mrs. Boehne is also survived by her siblings, Lawrence Rueter and wife Marilyn of Hoffman, and Anita Altenbaumer and husband Jim of Iowa.
In addition to her parents and husband Charlie, Erna was preceded in death by her son-in-law, Chuck Knuf; her sister, Elizabeth Boehne and husband Edwin, her brother, Martin Rueter, and 2 grandsons, Grant and Nolan Tucker.
Throughout her life, Erna devoted herself to her faith and contributed tirelessly to her church community as a lifelong member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Hoffman. There she held many offices, served in various capacities, and was an active participant with the Woman’s Fellowship. Erna helped start the preschool program at Trinity Lutheran School and joyfully taught preschool for 14 years. She also graciously served on the Altar Guild for the LCMS Youth Gathering. In her free time, Erna enjoyed creating beautiful quilts and handmade pieces that will be cherished for years to come.
Visitation will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hoffman on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, from 4:00 – 7:00 PM, and again on Wednesday, April 16, from 9:00 – 11:00 AM. A Funeral Service will follow on Wednesday at 11:00 AM at Trinity Lutheran Church, with burial at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery in Hoffman.
Expressions of sympathy in memory of Mrs. Boehne are suggested to Trinity Lutheran School in Hoffman or to Christ Our Rock Lutheran High School. Donations will be received through Zieren Funeral Home, 1111 Clinton Street, Carlyle, IL 62231. Online condolences may be shared by visiting www.ZierenFuneralHome.com.
