Sonja M. Ruder, formerly of Plainville, Kansas, passed away on January 20, 2025, at the Via Christi Village in Hays, at the age of 84. She was born in a car on January 6, 1941, to Donald and Marion Florene (Hindman) Grieve in Stockton, Kansas. Though her parents initially believed she had passed away, she was placed in a shoe box, proving from the very beginning to be a true survivor.
She was married on December 28, 1960, to Gerald “Jerry” Ruder in Plainville. He preceded her in death on September 11, 2020.
Sonja grew up in Stockton and graduated from Stockton High School in 1958. She moved to Plainville in the late 50s and lived there until June of 2020. Sonja moved to Brookdale Assisted Living in Hays, and then in June of 2023, she transferred to Via Christi Village. A self-educated woman, Sonja attended college classes around Plainville and built a diverse career. She worked as a telephone operator, an insurance agent, a tax preparer, all the while learning about investing. Her first job in banking was with Rooks County Savings and Loan. She continued in banking with First Federal Lincoln Bank, eventually becoming manager. She was a valued member of the community, including her involvement with the Lions Club, the Plainville Chamber of Commerce, and the Rooks County Health Center Auxiliary. Sonja also served on the Plainville Memorial Library board for many years, and was a member of a book club there.
Sonja was a creative writer with a passion for reading, especially non-fiction. She was an avid learner and enjoyed the quiet moments of reflection in her favorite books. She was also a talented seamstress, learning the craft from her grandmother, and her creations were always admired. Her grandmother instilled in her the passion to make the perfect pie; her family enjoyed the practicing results.
Known for her quirky sense of humor, Sonja loved the Grinch, eagles, and orange cats. She found joy in riding her bike with her neighbors, often spending hours exploring the world around her. Above all, Sonja was a great conversationalist, always available for her family and friends, offering kind words and support whenever it was needed.
Sonja is survived by her daughters, Jackie (Ron) Leikam of Hays, Kansas Bridget (Don) Cersovsky of Amarillo, Texas; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Jerry; and sister, Shirley Branch.
Funeral service will be held on Friday, January 24, 2025, at 11:00 AM, at Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home in Plainville. Burial will follow at Mount Vernon Cemetery, Stockton, Kansas. Visitation will be on Thursday, January 23, from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at the Funeral Home.
Memorials are suggested to Plainville Memorial Library and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd, Plainville, Kansas 67663.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.plumeroverlease.com