Racine- Gerald J. Van Ruden, 66, affectionately known to everyone as “Jerry” , passed away peacefully at Wheaton Franciscan –All Saints Medical Center on Sunday, June 12, 2011 following a courageous 9-month battle with Esophageal Cancer.
Jerry was born in South Milwaukee on September 13, 1944 to the late Otto and Eileen (nee: Rochford) Van Ruden. He graduated from William Horlick High School in 1963 and earned an associates degree in electronics from Racine Technical College. On August 31, 1968 in South Milwaukee, he was united in marriage with the love of his life, Barbara Ann (nee: Lussier) Van Ruden. They have been members of St. Sebastian Catholic Church since 1971.
Jerry was a dedicated employee of S.C. Johnson Wax for over 44 years, retiring in January of 2009. He enjoyed traveling, conquering home projects, yard work and cheering on his family at baseball games. A man of a few words with a profound work ethic, Jerry always put the needs of others before his own. He loved and cherished spending time with his entire family.
Surviving are his loving wife of nearly 43 years, Barb; their children, Lori (Rick) Maceri of Troutville, VA; Michael Van Ruden of Tempe, AZ; and David (Amy) Van Ruden of Racine; his treasured grandchildren, Destiny, Colton, Andrew, Christopher, Ashlyn, Rachel and Joshua; brother, James (Lois) Van Ruden; sister, Shirley (Steve) Lieber; mother-in-law, Theresa Lussier; sisters-in-law, Shirley Van Ruden, Sandra Welsher and Lisa (Don) Lussier-Fox; brothers-in-law, Mike Moyes and Duane (Joy) Lussier; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends too numerous to mention by name.
In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by his brothers, Charles and Paul Van Ruden; sisters, Ellen Baxter, Elaine Gorres and Coreen Moyes; father-in-law, Ralph Lussier; and brother-in-law, Kenneth Welsher.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Sebastian Catholic Church (3126 – 95th Street in Sturtevant) on Friday, June 17, 2011 at 11 am with Fr. Paul Raczynski officiating. Interment will follow in West Lawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Thursday from 5-7 pm and in the church on Friday from 10-11 am. In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested that donations be made in memory of Jerry to the National Foundation for Cancer Research – Esophageal Cancer Research.
A heartfelt note of thanks to Dr. Michael P. Mullane and his entire staff; Wheaton Franciscan Radiology Department; and to our devoted neighbors, The Robert Morelan Family, for the compassionate care and support extended to us in our time of need. May God bless all of you!
joshua van ruden says
I miss you Grandpa
Julie Sanders says
My heart weeps for your loss. My memories of Jerry are filled with kindness and adoration. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Su Rankin says
Barbara and Family, I was so saddened to hear about Jerry's illness and passing. We worked together in Aerosol mfg at Waxdale and he was truly a lovely and hard-working man. I feel priviledged to have know him. May God bless him and you during this most difficult time.
Valerie says
RIP Uncle Jerry! Your battle has made us all stronger <3
heather farra says
iam sorry to hear that mr vanruden passed away.
Sharon (Van Ruden) Stockman and Family says
Our treasured memories of Uncle Jerry and his kind ways will keep us smiling until we see him again.
To Aunt Barb, cousin Michael, cousin Laurie, Cousin David, and all your families, please know you will always be in our thoughts and prayers and we look forward to getting together whenever possible.
Don Waldbillig says
Hello Barb, Belated condolence to you and family on my cousin Jerry's death.
Michael Van Ruden says
Hi Dad. I know its been about a month now since you went home, but I wanted to tell you that I love you and miss you more then you know. You are always on my mind. You have set a high bar for us to live up to. I hope and pray we can make you proud. One day I will put my arms around you again whenever God calls me home. Until then Dad….
Love, Michael
Colton Pfeifer says
Grandpa,
It’s been 8 years now and I miss you every day. Lots have changed and I am glad that Mom is there with you. One day, I will be there with both of you. Until that day comes, I will live a selfless and fulfilling life.
Love,
Cole