Ruth E. Bitterberg, 77, of New Baden, died Friday, October 29, 2010 at Countryside Manor in Aviston. She was born November 11, 1932 in Breese, daughter of William H. and Emma Ida (Rudolph) Bitterberg. She is survived by one brother, Ralph Bitterberg of New Baden and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents. Ruth worked at New Baden Grain and also helped on the family farm. She was a member of Zion United Church of Christ and the Ladies Guild in New Baden and the Clinton County Farm Bureau. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, November 1, 2010 at Hempen Funeral Home in New Baden with Rev. Gretchen Sterrett & Rev. Elmer Bowman officiating. Burial will follow at Greenmount Cemetery in New Baden. Friends may call from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. Sunday, October 31, 2010 and from 9 a.m. until time of service Monday, November 1, 2010 at Hempen Funeral Home in New Baden. Memorials may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois or to the donor’s choice and will be received at the funeral home.