Ruth Krieger Family Collection, 1900 - 1982

Ruth Redonda Krieger (July 18, 1912-March 20, 1992) was hired as an Assistant Professor of Cello and Theory in the School of Music in 1956. She worked at Illinois Wesleyan University until her retirement in 1977. She continued to work part-time teaching harp and cello until 1982. Ruth was born to Otto and Hazel Krieger in Seattle, WA. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in music education from University of Washington in 1936, an artist’s diploma in cello theory from Juilliard School of Music in 1942, and a master’s of music from the University of Michigan in 1939. She served as a member of the Jersey City Symphony and Seattle Symphony, as well as holding appointments at the University of Idaho and Texas Christian University, teaching cello and theory.

Reverend Otto Frank Krieger (Feb. 3, 1879-1967) was born South Bend, IN. He was a pastor in the Methodist church. His missionary work in the Methodist church led him to many places such as Gilt Edge, Montana; Fairbanks, Alaska; and Bothell, Renton, and Montesano, Washington. His wife Hazel (Haskett) Krieger (May 9, 1885-Oct. 1, 1959), helped him in his pastoral duties and other community social functions. She was a choir leader and harpist and taught singing. Ruth had a sister Margaret (Krieger) Bethell (1906-1970).