Ruth Elaine VanDemark, 68, died peacefully with family on June 9, from complications of breast cancer. Former president of the Appellate Lawyers Association, she argued before the Illinois Supreme Court. As pastor of Wicker Park Lutheran Church, she restored a decaying church to its place as a center of worship and a community resource. Ruth is survived by her husband Leland Wilkinson; daughters Amie and Caroline Wilkninson; mother Bertie VanDemark; brothers Robert Jr. and Richard VanDemark; son-in-law Benson Farb.

Visitation, 9 a.m., and funeral services. 11 a.m. on June 23, at Wicker Park Lutheran Church, 2112 W. LeMoyne, Chicago, followed by lunch.

Donations in her memory may be made to Wicker Park Lutheran Church (www.wickerparklutheran.org) or North Avenue Day Nursery (www.nadnkids.org)

For further information 312-421-0936.