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David Ruhren Obituary
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Charlie Gili
March 4, 2017
Hello,
We would like to express our deepest condolences and also let the Ruhren Family know that we have made a small donation to the Children of the Fallen Relief Fund to honor David A. Ruhren US Army Sergeant. We recognize that this is a humble tribute, but we wanted you to know that it is heartfelt and made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals across the American youth hockey community and beyond. We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you safe and strong.
Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of the US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign
D C
November 26, 2012
Someone from our class at Gr-Field just passed away and looking him up in my yearbook brought up memories of David. I met him in middle school and he always had a kind word, something a lot of people seem to say. It is coming up to 8 years since God called you home, David, but we still think of you everyday. I am so proud to have known you and that bright smile. Thank you for your service.
Zina Middleton
May 3, 2012
Happy Birthday David.
Peggy Childers
December 22, 2011
To the family and friends of Spc. David Ruhren:
Please accept my remembrance of David on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
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Peggy Childers
December 23, 2010
To the family and friends of Spc. David Ruhren:
Remembering David on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
1st Squad (L to R)Sgt. Swales, Spc. Vitola, Spc. Crippen, Spc. Ruhren, Ssg. Miller, Cpl. Metzger, and Spc. Mason
Sinque Swales
December 21, 2010
Dave,
It's 6 years to the day now and i still talk about you to everyone i know. I really miss you and i will never forget you. Don't worry none of the guys forgot about you we have you in our memories and hearts.
Tiffany B
October 26, 2010
I was looking through an old yearbook tonight and decided to look up G-F; I found that you and Brian Medina had died and I was shocked. You were both younger than me, but I knew you both through friends/classes. I remember when I met you well. You were coming out of German and I was in French, you bumped into me and I was annoyed, but then you smiled and I smiled back. You introduced yourself so I did as well. After that I would always smile at you if I saw you when class let out and you would fake-duck out of the way like you were scared I'd hit you again. Funny. I don't remember many people from high school other than my closest friends, but I do remember you because you were a funny guy. RIP, David.
Donna Gillette
December 26, 2009
On this day and with each day that we enjoy our freedom, I would like to give thanks and let you know that I do not take our troops for granted. May you experience God when you feel your loss.
Sarah Breidenbach
March 15, 2009
I just found out. I can't believe you're gone...
tabitha jones
March 12, 2009
tabitha jones
tabitha jones
March 12, 2009
tabitha jones
January 26, 2009
Thank you for your service and sacrifice for this country. You and countless others who serve make me proud to be an American.
God Bless your family, always.
jodi jones
January 13, 2009
miss you so much your not forgotten. was thinking about you today at work love you... aunt jodi
January 13, 2009
In Memory of David ~ (Debra Estep)
December 28, 2008
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.
The Wind on The Downs
“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”
(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )
Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….
“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”
I did not know David, but I am remembering
his service and sacrifice. He is my hero. !
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Other Side
i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.
can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.
i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side
the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)
“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008
The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol
Sincerely,
Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Proud Air Force MIL SrA Dana – Randolph AFB
Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55
Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b
Peggy Childers
December 21, 2008
To the family of Spc. David Ruhren:
David gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Me and David November 04
December 20, 2008
Jeremy Dallos
December 20, 2008
I've never had, or will have, a better friend. Brothers for Eternity. Still missing you like crazy.
Monica Hargorve
November 18, 2008
I was in M.C. JROTC with David at Gar-Field H. S. . I can remember our first color guard like it was yesterday. It was at the Prince William County School Board meeting. We were so nervous. when we were done, Gunny Sgt James took the most funniest picture of us. ( we were making silly faces) I still have this picture and I look at it from time to time. I still cant believe that you are gone....
Rebecca P.
April 22, 2008
Davey,
I'm out of state and only now found out about our loss -and I can't believe it... I'm still in a bit of shock... I know you're missed, and I'm praying for your family.
April 21, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Spc Ruhren!
shannon ruhren
January 12, 2008
Was thinking about you alot today davey. Miss you alot.
August 3, 2007
If this person can stand in battle to ensure my freedom, then I will stand in grief with his/her family to honor him/her. For every fallen HERO there is a bright star that shines in the evening sky to remind us of the cherished gift we were given – even if for too short a time.
My heart breaks again as I sign yet another guest book of another courageous young soldier who gave their life so selflessly. I wish I never found myself in a position to have to sign another guest book for the rest of my life, but I promised LE RON A. WILSON (a dear friend KIA 7/6/07, 18yrs old) that neither he nor any like him would be forgotten and so I will continue until the day there is no longer the need.
PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)
Laurie L
July 16, 2007
My thoughts and prayers continue to be with you today just as they were in 2004 on the day we heard the news. I will never forget the ultimate sacrifice you have had to endure. I have tried to think of something to close and all that runs though my mind is THIS IS JUST NOT FAIR! You should not have to feel this pain. We are praying daily for you as walk though your journey of grief.
July 15, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Spc Ruhren and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
Sarah Melendrez
December 21, 2006
It hardly seems that two years ago you were taken from us, Davey. I miss you so much and continue to hope that I'll wake up and that this all has been just a horrible nightmare. Cereal, pajamas and cartoons Davey..I'll never forget.
Tim Curtin
December 21, 2006
Thinking of you today.
Doesn't seem like two years since that awful day.
We'll never forget you.
Sappers Lead!
Garnet Jenkins
December 21, 2006
In remembrance of this Fine Young Soldier, Spc. David Ruhren, on the 2nd anniversary of the day he gave his life for our Country and for Freedom.
May David, rest safely in God's Loving Care and know that he is a True American hero, that shall Never Be Forgotten.
May the Peace of the Lord continue to be with the Ruhren family.
There will never be enough ways, to humbly thank these Heroes, for their Supreme Sacrifice, my brother among them. KIA-Vietnam 1967.
Treasure this Young Hero Lord, In Your garden of rest,
For while here on this earth, he was one of our Best.
May you find peace in knowing the love and memories you have, will remain in your heart forever and that this Country remembers David's sacrifice.
I am deeply sorry for your loss.
ROBYN GARSIDE
September 26, 2006
MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST SYMPATHIES. PLEASE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO DO CARE AND YOUR HERO WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR TREASURED MEMORIES THAT HIS SPECIAL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE ON FOR YOU ALWAYS. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. STAY STRONG AND GODSPEED. SEMPER FI
A PROUD MARINE MOM
Leigh C
August 29, 2006
Sonia,
As a mother, I offer you condolence and hope God is affording you peace. I think of Dave often and Sarah has not forgotten his wonderful sense of humor and smile. I almost lost my daughter to surgery for a heart defect shortly after hearing of your wonderful son's death. Now I have my own son in ROTC for whatever is out there upon his graduation. We visit Dave at Quantico and have his photos on our mantel. He is not forgotten. While I have never met you, I have cried the tears of one mother for another. Our children knew each other and shared their proms. He will always be a part of our lives because of this. I continue to grieve for your loss, for his death was a loss for all of us. He was a wonderful young man. God Bless.
Kim Green
August 27, 2006
21st December 2005
A solemn prayer of remembrance
Lord, I give you thanks for returning the members of the 276 home safely to their families and friends. But Lord this is also a day of solemn pride and remembrance for the members of C Company for it was one year ago today that their comrades were taken from them. Lord I ask that you be with the families of Sgt. Mason and Sgt. Ruhren in their time of grief. Please be with members of C Company as they grieve the loss of their fellow soldiers and friends. Help these men cherish the time they spent with Sgt. Mason and Sgt. Ruhren. Let Sgt. Mason and Sgt. Ruhren be remembered for how they touched the lives of their fellow soldiers and so many others in their short time on Earth. May their memories live on in the hearts of men who served alongside them. Lord, help all of us not to forget the sacrifice that these men have made for their country and for the Iraqi people. I ask this in your name. Amen.
Teshia Sorensen
May 30, 2006
I knew David in High School. We had several classes together, including German. I considered him my friend though I don't think he knew it. High school was a hard time for me. He was one of the few who treated me with respect and kindness though He did not have to. And for that I will always cherish his memory. That is why I wear a military Killed In Action braclet for him. I will never take it off. My only regret was that I could not tell his mother and wife in person. I would give anything to tell them what his kindness meant to me.
Kirk Goolsby
February 15, 2006
I was driving home today annoyed with traffic as usual when I saw a small SUV with a sticker that read "A soldier -A son, David Allen Ruhren,?-?- 1984 to 12-?-2004...."
It struck me. Only 20 years old! Here was a local person who died in a war far from home...People, near my home, are morning this man and will for a lifetime. I thought of my own toddler son and thought of David as somebody's toddler son, and first grader, and high schooler... just like my son will be to me. I pray for a more peaceful world when my son becomes soldiering age.
As a new father I can only begin to have an idea of what the cost of war is. I pray for you and hope that soon no more families will loose sons through war.
I hope you, David's family and friends, will find strength and peace.
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
February 15, 2006
My heartfelt sympathy to the Ruhren family in the loss of david. I did not know David, but my heart is broken and I am sadden for your loss of such a fine young man and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers.David, it has been over a year since you were taken, but you will never be forgotten.
I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom
To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~
Bob Lawrence
December 26, 2005
I am deeply moved as I walk pass the memorial for your son and the brave ones who have paid the ultimate price for my love ones back home. I will always speak with great pride of his’ willingness to serve and to protect our country. May our great God continue to give you strength and courage in the long days ahead.
Q Madp
December 12, 2005
I would like to thank David for his service. I will not forget.
twanna taylor
November 17, 2005
I am sorry for your loss. Noone can ever get over the loss of a loved one but time lessens the grief. May God embrace you always!
JOVAN FRANKLIN
August 26, 2005
You will be missed very much. My deepest sympothay goes out to your family.
Sarah Melendrez
August 11, 2005
Sonja:
It has been nearly a year since Davey has left this earth. Know that although he is not here with us physically, he is always here for us spiritually. I knew Davey well and we would converse almost daily while he was in Iraq. I miss him very much and will never forget how loving he truly was. I will always keep you in my prayers and whenever I am faced with a challenge, whether in life or with the Army, I call on Davey's strength and courage and can overcome it with great ease.
I love you Davey.
Dave and I (CPL James Bell) before one of our many missions together.
April 16, 2005
Major Arnold Huskins, USAF / Army: 77-81, 88-92
April 8, 2005
May I offer my condolences to Mrs. Ruhren and all those whom David touched. Please know that other Americans share in your loss and are concerned.
It is my prayer that God may grant you all an extra measure of peace, comfort, and strength during this difficult time.
May David's legacy of bravery and devotion to our country and its safety be a source of pride to his family, an inspiration to others, and forever remembered by a grateful nation. His sacrifice is not unlike those Virginians in times past who gave their all for freedom in such places as Yorktown, Richmond, Argonne Forest, Normandy, Inchon, and Pleiku.
Sincerely, with deepest sympathy,
Lindsey Frasier
March 14, 2005
I had no idea what happened until a few nights ago. David and I briefly dated in high school and my deepest prayers are with his family. He was one of the nicest guys I had ever known and the world is going to be a different place now that he's not in it.
Jessica Lear
February 28, 2005
Today, I happened to look at the Gar-Field website and noticed David's death last year in Iraq. I briefly knew David in high school, however, I would like to express my deepest sympathies to all who was effected by his passing. May you find comfort and love through the Lord during this difficult time.
Paula Hogsett
January 16, 2005
I didn't know David but I know Joe through my cousin, Steve Clement. I'd like to let your family know that you are in our prayers. I'm sure David was a great guy and brave soldier. God bless
TABITHA KELLEY
January 6, 2005
SO MANY TIMES LIFE IS TAKEN TO EARLY. WE MISS THEM VERY MUCH ,TIME WILL MAKE IT EASIER TO BARE. REMEMBER THE TIME YOU HAD WITH YOUR LOVED ONE AND GOOD TIMES WILL SHINE THUR.YOU AND YOURS WILL BE IN ALL OUR PRAYS.
COLLEEN CONWAY
January 6, 2005
IM VERY SORRY OF YOUR LOST EVEN THOUGH I HAVE NEVER MEET THIS YOUNG MAN KNOWING HIS FAMILY THE WAY I DO HE HAS TO BE ONE GREAT GUY HE WILL BE IN MY PRAYS
PFC Kris Ishmael
January 4, 2005
It's sad to hear on the news when I hear that a fellow soldier has lost their life. And it hurt to know that it was sombody that i know. I had good times with David. I knew him in highschool in JROTC and outside of school. I'm in the Army as well, and stationed in Korea, so i can understand what the family is going through. David was a good person in heart and character, and i'm proud that the US Army had him as an NCO.
HOOAH!!!
Messina and Jerry Cumberland
January 3, 2005
Scott and Michelle - our deepest sympathies for the lost of your nephew. Our hearts go out to your family.
Jerry and Messina Cumberland
Major Alyce Smith
January 3, 2005
Sonja, If there is anything that I can do for you, do not hesitate to call me. And THANK YOU FOR THE GREAT HONOR you did me in having my name mentioned during the funeral Mass Thursday. David taught me more then I can every claim to have taught him. A. M. Smith, Major USMC(Ret.), SMI, Gar-Field MCJROTC
Amanda Menzie
January 2, 2005
David...you were a bright and energetic person when i met you..of course the first friend you make in highschool is always energetic.. you were sitting right next to andrew hicks when i walked into herr Baileys german 2 class. i kept starring at the both of you.. probably because you were the older sophmore boys..and i couldnt help but fall for that amazing eye catching smile you had. it almost made me skip a breath.. i was soo mad you didnt say hi to me until after class.. but i couldnt be mad at you.. i could never be mad at someone so bright and caring. over the years you made every day of highschool worth it. just to see you and get those great big hugs from you after class.. i was your midget...Just know you have my Heart forever.. i grew to love you over the years..you were my soldier... and will be remembered as my hero...
<33 with love and support for all who knew david.
Kimberly Vest
December 30, 2004
Ms. Sonja Ruhren and family,
My deepest sympathy goes out to all of you. I attended Gar-Field High School and middle school with David. Over the years we had several classes together and occassionaly hung out. He was a very kind individual who always had a smile on his face, was always up for conversation, and never hesitated to say hello when passing by. Although we have not talked since high school, I was heart stricken when I heard of his passing. David will be greatly missed. I will never forget him or his fight for our country.
Kimberly Vest
Phillip Kreamer
December 30, 2004
David, you will be missed. Thank you for the memories.
Major Jane Houston
December 30, 2004
My deepest sympathies to Sonja and David's family and friends. May God be with you at this time of need. Although I do not know Sgt. Ruhren, I thank him for protecting our country's freedom.
monica hargrove
December 30, 2004
you will be missed in alot of ways. when i read the newspapper and seen david ruhrens name tears just came to my eyes. all of the fun moments that we had in rotc at garfield will stay in my heart forever. i know your in a better place and some day i will join you in that better place.
SANDRA REYES
December 30, 2004
GOD BLESS DAVY DEAR SONJA DAN WAS HOME FROM AFGHANISTAN AND WAS SO DEVESTATED TO HEAR THE NEWS. MY LAST MEMORY OF DAVY WAS HIM STANDING IN THE BACKYARD WITH ONE OF HIS LIZARDS ON HIS SHOULDER. THE SUN WAS SHINING AND IT WAS A BEAUTIFUL DAY--A BEAUTIFUL MEMORY OF A BEAUTIFUL BOY. PLEASE KNOW THAT DANNY AND I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER DAVY, A WONDERFUL KID WHO BECAME A WONDERFUL YOUNG MAN. GOD BLESS DAVY.
Jim and Gail Lane
December 30, 2004
We did not know your David. We heard of him through our daughter Sharon who is a friend of JoJo. We offer our deepest sympathy and prayers for you and your family. All of you have made a tremendous sacrifice for our country and we thank you.
Karen Monk
December 30, 2004
David was not an acquaintance of mine I am sorry to say, but you and your family have mine and the American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 364, Woodbridge, deepest sympathies for your loss. I know how very hard it is to loose a loved one.
Armand and Cindy Mayzel
December 29, 2004
Our deepest sympathy goes out to Sonjia and her family. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. We worked together for a few years and know what a close relationship Sonjia and Davey had. God Bless you and comfort you now and always. Armand and Cindy Mayzel
Lori, Ryan, and Justin Bradley
December 29, 2004
Our deepest sympathies to the Ruhren family. Your son is indeed a great hero. You will remain in our thoughts and prayers.
Guy Pelino
December 29, 2004
I still remember the pictures you brought of David. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Gay Bedwell
December 29, 2004
I would like to extend my sympathies to the Ruhren family. I worked with David's mother, Sonja and knew first hand how close they were. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Melanie Schofield
December 29, 2004
Sonja-I'm so sorry to here about your loss. I will keep David in my prayers as he is not gone, but has now become your gardian angel.
Love Melanie Schofield
Joanne Hepler
December 29, 2004
I did not know your son or your family but wanted to send my condolences and to say Thank you to your son for his service to our country. He, among the others, are appreciated and words cannot convey my heartfelt sorrow to you and yours at this time nor my gratitude for his service to our country. May God bless you.
I grew up in Woodbridge and still have many friends in the area; therefore, I keep in touch with what is going on by getting on line with the Potomac News.
Once again, God bless.
JaKayla "Kellee" King
December 29, 2004
I went to Gar-field with David and I must say that he was a good man, right down to the bone. He was loved, is loved, and truly missed. Best Wishes to the family you will be in my prayors.
Mickie Sullivan
December 29, 2004
I would like to extend my condolences to the Ruhren family. I taught David in the 10th grade at Gar-Field H.S.. He was always the first to help, without being asked and always had a smile on his face.He was a pleasure to have in class. He will be missed.
Chaplain Duane Brawner
December 29, 2004
The Chief & Members of the Dumfries
Triangle Rescue Squad our deeply
sorry of your Loss of David! You
and your family our in our prayers!
May the Lord be with you & your family in this time of need! God Bless you! Your friends!
Eileen Williams
December 29, 2004
Although I didn't know David, I want to thank him for his sacrifice that continues to ensure my freedom as well as the freedom of all Americans. And to his family I extend my deepest sympathy on this tremendous loss.
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