John Ruckaber passed away with his family by his side on Sunday, April 14, 2013. John was predeceased by his parents, Henry and Beatrice; sister, Rose Marie (Bernie Renneberg); brothers, Kenneth and Peter; brothers-in-law, Willard Eagles and Ed Sobush; sister-in-law, Judy Ruckaber; infant son; and granddaughter, Joei Lynne. He was born on August 8, 1930 on the family farm near small town Liebenthal. As the oldest of a family of eight, John helped out on the farm. As time passed he found himself in Macoun where he met Shirley (Eagles) whom he married on June 24, 1953. Together they had six children. John bought a house on Government Road in Weyburn and moved his family there in 1960. He worked for the Department of Highways for a time then became employed at Souris Valley, first as a nurse's aide and later as a plumber. John retired after 35 years at Souris Valley. During his life, John was involved in various sports, including ball (both playing and coaching), curling and was well known for his 5-pin bowling. John leaves to mourn his passing, his wife of 59 years, Shirley; sons, Don (Joanne Mallory), Dale (Gerry nee Maas) and Kevin (Darlene nee MacPherson); daughters, Donna (Garth) Mryglod, Debbie and Deanne (Joe) McLeod; daughter-in-law, Rena Elyk; 24 grandchildren and 33 great grandchildren; brothers, Frank (Maureen) of Medicine Hat, AB and Bill (Annette) of Weyburn; sisters, Katie (Larry) Sape of Edson, AB and Betty Eagles of Estevan, as well as many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Donations in memory of John may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or the Royal Canadian Legion, Weyburn Branch 47. A private family service was held with interment to follow at a later date in Macoun Cemetery, Macoun. Condolences may be left at: www.fletcherfuneralchapel.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Fletcher Funeral Chapels Ltd., Weyburn (306) 842-5432
