Alan John Ruis

Funeral services for Alan Ruis, age 65, of Milaca, will be held Monday, November 11, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. at the Christian Reformed Church in Pease with Rev. Michael Ten Haken officiating. Interment will be at the Pease Cemetery with military honors provided by Hansen-Hayes American Legion Post #178 & Siemers-Hakes VFW Post #10794. Visitation will take place Sunday, November 10, 2013 from 3:00-6:00 p.m. at the church and a viewing time will take place one hour prior to services at the church on Monday. Alan J. Ruis was born on October 17, 1948 in Milaca and went to be with his Heavenly Father peacefully in his home on November 7, 2013, after battling many health issues for the past seven years. Al attended Community Christian School in Pease and graduated from Milaca High School and the University of MN Crookston. He served in the National Guard from 1968-1974. On August 8, 1970, Al married the love of his life, Marla, and they were blessed with four children. He was a dairy farmer for 30 years and then worked as a cable locator for seven years. After a disabling stroke in September 2006, he blessed his family and community by volunteering, watching grandkids, and making wooden blocks. Despite his heath issues he was always optimistic and his motto was: “Every day is a good day. Some days are better!” Al loved to fish, hunt, play cards, and travel. He especially enjoyed the annual fishing trip to Cobb Bay Lodge with the crew. But most of all, he LOVED spending time with his grandkids! He always lit up when they were around and he always had a pocketful of peppermints. He had a passion for all children; many of whom held a special place in Grandpa Al’s heart. Alan is survived by his wife, Marla, of 43 years, four children: Shelly and Mike Ash of Milaca; Joel and Pamela Ruis of Waupun, WI; Craig and Kari Ruis of Waupun, WI; and Amy and Bernie Boldt of Foreston; grandchildren: Ben, Jake, Brandon, Courtney, Dylan, Cayden, Gracie, Cyler, Jaegar, Griffin, Corey, and Jayanna; mother, Sylvia; sister Kathy (Paul) Moos; and brothers Bill (Pam) and Tom (Dianne). He was preceded in death by his father, John, and granddaughter Riley Jade Ash. He is also remembered by countless special individuals, whose lives he touched in many ways.