Richard Louis Ruenzi Sr.

Richard L. Ruenzi, Sr. passed peacefully surrounded by his family, on May 24, 2018. He was born February 22, 1945, to the late Fredrick Ruenzi and Louise (Wilma) Ruenzi. Following his graduation from Lane Technical School in Chicago, Illinois, he entered the United States Air Force, and was stationed at Lockbourne Air Force Base, in Columbus, Ohio, where he also attended Ohio University. Shortly afterward, he met and married the love of his life, Patricia Burgess. Rich enjoyed softball, bowling, playing cards with his friends, and was influential in establishing and coaching the first soccer team at Bloom-Carroll High School, in Carroll, Ohio. He was a member of the Teamsters for twenty five years, and retired from Roadway Express.

Rich is survived by his wife, Patti; and was a loving father to his son, Richard L. Ruenzi II; and daughter, Dr. Monique J. Ruenzi-Penfield (Dennis Penfield). He adored his grandsons, Gage and Cade Penfield. He leaves behind sister, Judy (Angelo) Licause; brother, Gerard (Geri) Ruenzi; sister-in-law, Annette Ruenzi; and many nieces and nephews. He will be missed by his pugs, Ottis and Miley. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Donald and Paul. Many thanks to his very good friend, John Fantin, who was supportive throughout his illness.

Family and friends may visit 10-11:00am on Thursday, May 31, at the DWAYNE R. SPENCE FUNERAL HOME, 650 W. Waterloo St. Canal Winchester, OH 43110 with a funeral service officiated by Pastor David Hanning and Pastor Patty Wycuff to follow at 11:00am. Interment at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens. Many thanks to his niece Michelle, the Zangmeister Cancer Center and Fair Hope Hospice.