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John Ruthenbeck Obituary

JOHN J. RUTHENBECK Avon/Portage, Indiana John J. Ruthenbeck, age 35, passed away on Tuesday, July 31, 2007. He was born December 29, 1971, in Gary, IN, the son of John and Betty Ruthenbeck. Affectionately known as Joe, he was a 1990 graduate of Portage High School and received a Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice in 1995 from Purdue University. Joe was currently working for Schering Plough Pharmaceuticals as a Pharmaceutical Representative. Joe enjoyed body building and physical fitness, loved to go whitewater rafting, jet skiing, sky-diving, and most extreme sports. Joe was also involved in Pit Bull Dog Rescue. Joe is survived by his loving family: his parents, John and Betty Ruthenbeck, of Valparaiso; sister, Jennifer (Spencer) Knight, Crown Point; niece, Alexandra Knight, Crown Point; grandmother, Cora Hughes, Hobart; best friends, Jerry Thomas, Avon, Jeremy Thomas, Avon, and Jason Haddix of Avon; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and other loving family and dear friends. He is also survived by his faithful and loving companion, his dog "Howie". A visitation for John J. Ruthenbeck will be held from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 5, 2007 at Rees Funeral Home, Hobart Chapel, 600 West Old Ridge Road, Hobart. Cremation will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Portage. Memorials in Joe's memory may be made to the donor's choice. For further information please call Rees Funeral Home at 219-942-2109 or www.reesfuneralhomes.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Post-Tribune on Aug. 4, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for John Ruthenbeck

Not sure what to say?





Michelle Vandergrift

September 30, 2007

I met John seven years ago, I have seen him every three to four weeks becouse I am his hair stylist. If any of you have had a relationship with a stylist you have posibly felt that client stylist shift to a friendship. That I did have with John. We have shared our ups and downs of life. I am glad to say that he was my friend I hold his memories close. I am so sorry for all our loss John had grown so much that I feel cheated that I didn't get to say good bye!I hope that you all know that he was constant with his love for this family and friends may he find your love in heaven.

Krista Taylor

September 2, 2007

There is so much to say, I couldn't possibly get it all into this guestbook. I know I speak for the whole Ruthenbeck family, though, when I say we love you and we're missing you , Joe. And we love you, and we're always here for you, Uncle Jack and Aunt Jean.

Rest in peace now, Dear Cousin.

Love Always,
Krista

Don Sharp

August 22, 2007

Jean, Jack,
Sorry to answer so late, Deb called Tami, I was there with one of my grandaughters and was unable to make the funeral. Don

Steve Rusnak

August 16, 2007

Jack, and Jean, I am so sorry for your loss...everyone that posts here is very saddened by it. Joe and I lost touch several years ago, but I can't help but thinking about the times I sat in your home eating tons of Chefboyaredee, and clowning around with him. He has such a great soul...I met Joe at Landmark Signs...He helped me with my homework (And other rough times)...I had the pleasure of his company all through college, when many couldn't visit me...

I am so saddened by this...I hope you are all doing as best you can...I know it's hard, but with a good soul and heart like Joe had, I can only think he is in a better place...RIP my friend...We will meet again some day...Love you...

Samuel Artman

August 15, 2007

John and I were part of the same training class with GMAC Insurance and we worked together for 5 years.
John had a great deal of energy and emotion that carried over to the office to make our jobs less stressful.

Sameerah Belle Baker

August 15, 2007

I remember John from training class at GMAC/Integon Insurance. He was a great guy and made training fun. My sympathies to the Ruthenbeck family.

Dave Bafia

August 15, 2007

John and I worked together at GMAC Insurance for 5 years. He made those years very entertaining. He will be deeply missed.

Misty Widmer

August 14, 2007

My thoughts and prayers are with your family! I had the pleasure of working with John at Schering Plough for the past year and a half. He was a genuine and kind friend that will be truly missed!

Kristin Smith

August 14, 2007

Mr and Mrs Ruthenbeck, family and friends- When I met John, about 2 years ago, he lit my world up. I found such a kind, passionate man, someone with goals and desires for a good life. However that time knowing him ended for the best, but that doesn't mean he wasn't forgotten. He ignited me in many ways. I am sorry for the news I just recieved on your loss. I had always hoped the best for him. He will not be forgotten, I got to know him well and cared for him and for what he wanted and needed. I am truly sorry for everyones loss, we all got to know him in different ways. I cared for your son a great deal and his family deeply, my sympathy goes out to all who got to know the man I remember and adored. God Bless and may he be taken care of!
THE LOSS OF A LOVED ONE CAN BE SO UNREASONABLE AND UNACCEPTING!
It might not be obviuos, but we are all touched by an angel, its up to us to see that, they come in many forms! some in pain, some not, some strong, some not, some bleesed, some searching to be. God takes us when he needs us, we then need to accept his intention!

Betty Vendramin

August 14, 2007

Jean and Jack: We are so sorry to hear of your loss. We all have very fond memories of a young Joe. You are all in our prayers.

Rob Henn

August 13, 2007

I worked with John at GMAC Insurance from 97'- 02', and shared quite a few laughs with him. He added to quite a fun office atmosphere. I am deeply sorry for your loss.

Kimberley Dayton

August 13, 2007

I was John's manager at GMAC Insurance back in 1996 when John was a rookie adjuster. What a great time we had. I will always remember John's energy and how much fun he was. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Kimberley Dayton

August 13, 2007

John, I will always remember what a fun person you were to be around. I still remember our days at GMAC Insurance when you were a new rookie adjuster. You will be missed by many. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

Lori Case

August 13, 2007

John was one of those rare truly "good" peope in this world. He made it his mission to make others smile and laugh. He had such a compassionate and caring soul. Anybody that came in contact with him should feel blessed! He was always the life of any party. His spirit will never leave us. The world has lost an amazing man, but heaven has gained an amazing angel! Deepest sympathies go out to his family.

Tami Rivera

August 11, 2007

I hadn't seen my cousin in quite a few years, but will always remember the happy boy who always had a smile on his face. I hope you have found your peace, Joe. We love you. Tami Rivera and Family

Abby Miller

August 10, 2007

I will never forget our constant text messages throughout our work days. :) He always knew how to make me smile. I will always miss you John.

Theresa Klingensmith

August 10, 2007

My thoughts and prayers to the family.

Courtney Oppman

August 10, 2007

John was a sweet, generous person who always had the best of intentions at heart. My sympathies and prayers are extended to his family and all those who were close to him.

Joe Ursida

August 10, 2007

Joe and I in our youth were more then cousins. We were the best of friends and I will never forget the great times we shared. I am deeply saddened that I will no longer get to see him. I will forever miss him.

Kelsey Lucas

August 9, 2007

John was a dear friend to both myself and Jerry. He always knew how to make us laugh. I couldn't wait to hear what was coming out of his mouth next...always something funny! I will never forget all the great times we had hanging out and being silly. I miss you and love you John.

Kiley Johnson

August 9, 2007

My thoughts and prayers go out to John's family & friends. He always made me laugh and his energy was contagious. John is already missed and will be forever remembered.

Jason Haddix

August 9, 2007

John was the very best friend I ever had. He would do anything for anyone. He truly was an amazing man. Myself, my wife, and my kids loved him very much. He will always be missed and Jack, Jean, and his entire family will always be in our prayers.

Carla Martin

August 9, 2007

JOHN WAS A GOOD PERSON. HE WAS A REP AT MY OFFICE IN MARTINSVILLE, IN. HE ALWAYS HAD A SMILE ON HIS FACE. WE WILL MISS HIM DEARLY.

Celeste Fouts

August 9, 2007

I first met John, aka "Bam Bam", in the beginning of this year at Bella Vita, when he accompanied his friends Taylor and Lance from a day on the boat at Geist. Although there were few people there that evening, they still managed to cause quite a scene. By the end of the night John and Taylor finally came over and introduced themselves, because I took it upon myself to add our bar tab to theirs. Due to prior statements they had made to Jen and I while walking into the restaurant, I felt they deserved to buy us a drink LOL. From that night on my life was impacted indefinately. I credit John for me meeting, my now boyfriend, Taylor. If John had not been there, I know Taylor would have never said or done anything to get my number that night. Although I knew him for only a short time, within the first few times hanging out, I had felt like I had known him my whole life...and truly wish I had. He gave me so much as a friend and truly impacted my life, so positively, in ways he will never know. John was the most comical and caring person I have ever met. He introduced me to phrases like "STRONG _______" <--- insert just about any word you wish there,"babies heads", and the list goes on. He gave new meaning to Reddi-Whip, Asti champagne, and rubber duckies. He was always the life of the party and will never be forgotten, especially in Cocktail Cove or Bella Vita. It always amazed me how he could turn anyone's negative moment/attitude into something so positive and hilarious. He aura was good enough to make anyone smile. Although a majority of time spent around John was entertaining; he was also such an understanding, genuine, and caring person to talk to. He was a guy who actually listened! I am so blessed to have met such a great friend and will never forget him!
<3 Celeste

Erika Wright

August 8, 2007

I saw John once or twice a week when he came into the office. Always a friendly smile on his face. John was a very kind man with a big heart. He always talked about his god daughter and how much he loved her. My prayers are with you all and I am very sorry for your loss.

Erika Wright

August 8, 2007

I saw John once or twice a week when he came into the office. Always a friendly smile on his face. I can't say I knew him well but from what I knew he was a very kind man with a big heart. He always talked about his god daughter and how much he loved her. My prayers are with you all and I am very sorry for your loss.

Drew Hubble

August 8, 2007

I'am sorry for the loss of your son. He will always be remembered by me as a great friend and someone who would always be there for me. We will miss him dearly.

Linda Hallman

August 8, 2007

Jean & Jack - We were so very sorry to hear about Joe's death. We are reminded of Joe whenever we look at pictures of Doug with the car that he bought from Joe. We are praying for you and your family. In time, Jean, please call. I would love to get together with you. May God be with you all.

Mandie Foldenauer

August 8, 2007

I just met John this summer and I can say nothing but good things about him. Not only did he make me laugh almost everyday, but he was also very intelligent and had a lot of meaningful things to say. I will pray for his friends and family in this time of loss.

Lance D. Smith

August 7, 2007

John could always lighten my day with a humerous voicemail or random funny text message. In the short 6 months that I knew him, I will defenitely never forget him. He was a unique and gifted person that I am so very sorry you have lost. Hopefully he has now found peace but will live on in all of our thoughts forever.

August 7, 2007

August 7, 2007

Mandie Foldenauer

August 7, 2007

I met John a day after my birthday and loved him and every minute with him since. He will be with me wherever I go. He was my rockstar.

Jim Rusnak

August 7, 2007

I'm a friend of Joe's from Portage. I knew him best after college. Like most people have said, I'll always remember him with a smile on his face. My thoughts and prayers are with Joe and his family.

Julie Sapkaroski

August 7, 2007

My dear family. I just want to say that John "Joe" will live forever in our memory and our hearts. Joe was a very loving person, and will be deeply missed. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless. Love you Cuz. R.I.P.

Tammie Poplewko

August 7, 2007

God Bless you, your family and friends. I am so sorry for your loss. I had only known John for the last month, I was his new Schering Plough partner. He was always smiling and kind and ready to lend a hand to anyone in need. He will be greatly missed.

DEBRA HUTNICK

August 6, 2007

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Just got back into town from vacation and saw the notice in the paper. My thoughts are with you.

Christa Cowden

August 6, 2007

John will always be in my heart and sadly missed. I will miss hearing his voice and seeing his smiling face as he walked in the office. He had been there for me many times, whenever I needed him and I will miss our many conversations. He was a great guy with a big heart and could talk for hours. I will always remember him. My prayers go out to his family and friends.

Rebecca Alton

August 6, 2007

John was an important part of my life and I loved him dearly. I couldn't have asked for a better friend. He was always there for me and I cherished every second I got to spend with him in person and on the phone. He will be greatly missed and will forever by in my heart.

Mark Makara

August 6, 2007

I am so sorry for your loss as my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. May you find the Lord's strength to help you through this difficult time. God bless you and your family.

Curt Gauen

August 5, 2007

Jack and Jean - I was fortunate enough to work with John in Indianapolis. I will miss his big smile and his big heart. I am so sorry for your loss.

Stacy Adams

August 5, 2007

My deepest sympathies. John was a great man with a big heart and a wonderful humor. He was very encouraging to me and for that I will forever be thankful. I care for him deeply and will remember him always! He is sadly missed by me and all the people he touched daily.

Jerry Reidelbach

August 4, 2007

Iam very sorry for your loss. I went to Fegely Middle School with Joe. My Prayers go out to you and your family.
Love and God bless

Roni Harvey

August 4, 2007

Jack and Jean...I cannot tell you how deeply I feel the pain you share today. You are in my thoughts and will be as you travel this road. May you find strength in the love of family and friends.

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