EAST GROVE — Hazel Lorraine Reuter, 97, formerly of East Grove, passed away on Thursday, March 14, 2024, at Heritage Square, in Dixon, where she resided the last 12 years. She worked for the Lee County Soil & Water District, retiring in 1994.

Hazel was born on Feb. 23, 1927, in East Grove, the daughter of Henry and Myrtle (Chandler) Reuter. She was a lifelong member of East Grove Union Church, in Amboy. Hazel spent most of her life farming and was instrumental in the preservation of the historic "Stevens Cemetery." She also proudly preserved prairies and wetlands, even traveling to Washington D.C. in 1988 to receive an award from President Ronald Reagan. Above all, Hazel was a dedicated and faithful Christian and a second mother to her nieces and nephews, whom she adored.

Hazel is survived by one brother-in-law, William Carey; one sister-in-law, Jane Reuter; her eight beloved nieces and nephews, Pam Carey, Deb Carey, David (Mary) Reuter, Micheal (Jackie) Reuter, Angela O'Malley, Lisa Reuter, Sandy (Michael) Forbes, Kenda (Steve) Bailey; and numerous great nieces and nephews, as well as great-great nieces and nephews.

Hazel was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Myrtle Reuter; four siblings, Dale (Roberta) Reuter, Lyle (Phyllis) Reuter, Kenneth Reuter, Doris Carey; and one nephew, Micky O'Malley.

Private Family Services are to be held. Burial will take place at Prairie Repose Cemetery, in Amboy.

Memorials may be directed to the East Grove Union Church, 449 Union Road, Amboy, IL 61310.

Arrangements were completed by Preston-Schilling Funeral Home, in Dixon.

Condolences may be sent to www.prestonschilling.com.