Obituary of Bill Ruecker

December 14, 1930 – Lemberg, Saskatchewan

October 8, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

William George Ruecker passed away peacefully on October 8, 2024 in Calgary, Alberta, attended to by his loving immediate family and devoted caregivers. He lived a rich life of 93 years.

Bill is survived by his daughter Dawn (Ed) Wright, his daughter Lori (Greg) Plater, and his grandchildren Taryn (Matthew) and Cole (Nicole). He is also survived by his brother Paul and his sister Marlene (Alvin) Frick.

Born on December 14, 1930 in Lemberg, Saskatchewan, Bill spent his early life on the family farm – a place he would return to often and that was always close to his heart.   He met the love of his life, Ruth, when, as the new schoolteacher in Lemberg, she was invited to dinner at the Ruecker home.  After marrying on August 8, 1956 Bill and Ruth headed west to start their life together, settling in Calgary, Alberta, where they would remain for the rest of their lives. And, as their song said, their love was true evermore.

Bill had a prairie work ethic and a determination that was his hallmark.  He was a self-starter, resilient, and ambitious and he proudly established and successfully ran Glacier Glass for many, many years, through both good and challenging times.

Bill was an exceptional athlete and, like many prairie boys, he excelled at hockey and baseball. He was a longtime boys minor hockey coach and girls softball coach who, with a no-nonsense style, helped his teams win City championships and compete at the provincial level. He is still “Coach Ruecker” to those many athletes who fondly remember the impact he had on them. Bill continued to demonstrate his own skill on the ball diamond well into his 60s, with more speed on the basepaths than men half his age. 

Bill was a proud parent who adored his daughters and admired their husbands.  He loved to spend time with them, laughed lots, and never lost his quick wit and defining humour. Being a grandparent was perhaps Bill’s greatest joy. With unwavering devotion, he and Ruth faithfully attended Cole’s baseball and basketball games and Taryn’s music performances, cherishing every minute with them. 

A celebration of life will be held at Shepherd King Lutheran Church (804 75 Ave SW) on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at 2:00pm, with Pastor Greg Kern officiating and Pastor Kevin Scott assisting. Please join us for an uplifting service, with music and memories, in fond remembrance. Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Bill's service streamed live on the day of the service.

Bill’s family extends their immense gratitude to a devoted team of loving caregivers: Bhemy and Arcie, the Trico LivingWell care team, Doctor Cheema, Maung, Liz, Amber and Anna.  Special thanks to Tim and Gloria and the WMV Bible Study group and to Pastor Greg for their kindness. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada.

Click Here to Sign Bill's Digital Guest Book and Watch the Celebration of Life