Obituary of Gerard Ruetz

<h1>Gerard Ruetz</h1> 1928 – 2008 Gerard (Gerry) William Ruetz was born July 14, 1928 in Walkerton, ON. Gerard passed away peacefully at St. Mary’s Hospital on August 14, following complications from pneumonia. Gerard is lovingly remembered by his sisters, Kathleen (Paleczny) and Theresa (Tomko) both of Kitchener, Ontario, and his brother Father Frank Ruetz C.R. of Waterloo, Ontario. His absence will be deeply felt by his sisters-in-law, Fran (the late Robert), Catherine (the late Albert), and Joyce (the late Jack) all from the K-W area. Gerard was predeceased by his parents, Eleanor Ruetz (nee Schnurr) and Henry Ruetz, and by his brother-in-law, the late Joseph Paleczny. Gerard’s infectious smile and animated greeting will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him, including his nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. Gerard grew up in the Kitchener Waterloo area. He lived a long and courageous life, inflicted as he was at birth with major psychological disorders. He lived at home except for the past twenty years of his life where he had enjoyed a very happy life in a group home sponsored by K-W Habilitation Services. His living companions for the past twenty years, Monty and Robert, will miss him, as will the dedicated and caring staff who, through the years, have created and maintained a genuine home for Gerard at 129 Connelly. Special appreciation to the present and past staff members who have managed the Connelly home for the past twenty years. They have effectively created and operated a loving home for Gerard where he has always felt loved and affirmed. Visitation will be held at the Erb &amp; Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo, Friday from 7-9 p.m., with a Vigil Prayer Service at 8:30 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Louis RC Church, 53 Allen St. E., Waterloo on Saturday, August 16, 2008 at 11 a.m., the Rev. Frank Ruetz C.R. as celebrant. Interment in Parkview Cemetery. Reception to follow in the Parish Hall. Donations will be gratefully accepted for the K-W Habilitation Services and the Carmel of St. Joseph (Carmelite Monastery, St. Agatha, Ontario) and may be arranged through the funeral home, 519-745-8445 or www.erbgood.com. In living memory of Gerry a donation will be made to the Trees for Learning Program by the funeral home.