Robert G. Ruwwe

Robert Gene Ruwwe, 88, affectionately known as Bob to his friends and family, passed away peacefully at his home in Leasburg, MO, on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. Born on March 21, 1937 at Desloge Hospital in St. Louis, MO to John and Frances (Arnold) Ruwwe, Bob's life was a testament to hard work, love, and the simple joys that bring us together.

Bob's early education saw him attending some primary grades at Guese School and Holy Martyrs Catholic School where he graduated from 8th grade in 1952. He grew up during times that taught the value of diligence and resourcefulness. As a young man, he contributed to his family's needs by assisting local farmers and cutting wood. It was in these formative years that Bob also discovered a passion for blacksmithing, a craft that would later define a significant part of his life.

Bob's work ethic was evident throughout his life. Before finding his calling in the mining industry, he worked with Ramco and Havin Materials. However, his heart belonged to the earth and its treasures, which led him to a fulfilling career with Meramec Mines followed by Pea Ridge Mine, where he dedicated over three decades of service until his retirement in 1997.

The year 1956 marked a pivotal moment in Bob's life when he married Wilma Emily on March 24. Their loving partnership was blessed with three children: Jeff, Lisa, and Tresa. It was a union that not only nurtured a family but also fostered a shared love for craftsmanship.

In retirement, Bob and Wilma found great pleasure in honing their crafts. While Wilma created beautiful quilts, Bob returned to his early love of blacksmithing. Their combined talents blossomed into a business, Country Quilting & Early Smithing, which they proudly ran together. The joy they found in their work was only matched by the joy they brought to others through their creations.

Bob's interests extended beyond his anvil and forge. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing. He especially loved black powder rifles and even built some for hunting use. Bob would always pick a nice day after he moved out by Lisa and Joe and tell Joe, "Let's burn some powder today!" Antiquing and gardening were also among his favorite pastimes, allowing him to connect with history and the earth in unique ways. Bob's fondness for "Stag" beer was well-known, a simple pleasure that he enjoyed in the company of friends and family.

Those who knew Bob will remember him as an adventurer at heart. His good-natured spirit and sense of humor were as reliable as his sturdy blacksmith's hands. His laughter and stories enriched the lives of all who had the pleasure of his company.

Bob is survived by his daughters, Lisa Wegescheide and husband, Joe of Leasburg, MO and Tresa Copsey and husband, Reese of Rich Hill, MO; his grandchildren: Connie Smith and husband, Craig of Union, MO, Bonnie Land and significant other, Phillip Piscotta of Augusta, MO, Becky Stricklin and husband, Steve of Havre de Grace, MD, Dan Wegescheide and wife, Amber of Union, MO, Steve Copsey of Nevada, MO, Kyle Copsey and wife, Devon of Lamar, MO, and Karen Kithcart and husband, Richard of Rich Hill, MO; 18 great-grandchildren: Sierra, Cydni, Dawson, Josh, Autumn, Logan, Kyler, Madelyn, Camden, Carson, Jade, Jackson, Halie, Evan, David, Ethan, Eric, and Zack; 3 great-great grandchildren: Elena, Bella, & Emilee; 3 sisters: Shirley Holbrook of Corpus Christi, TX, Sandra Koppelman and husband, Richard of Gerald, MO, and Sharon Roller of Arizona; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Wilma; a son, Jeff; a grandson, M. David; a great-grandson, Josh; his parents, John and Frances Ruwwe; and a brother, Norris Ruwwe.

Funeral Mass will be 10:00 AM, Friday, February 20, 2026 at Holy Martyrs Catholic Church in Japan, MO with Father Noah Waldman celebrating. Burial will be St. Stephens Catholic Cemetery, Richwoods, MO.

Visitation will be 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Thursday, February 19, 2026 at the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan, MO.

Memorial contributions may be given in Bob's memory to the Jeffery David Ruwwe Scholarship Fund.

Friends may share condolences online with Bob's family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan, MO.