John L. Ruether of Wentzville, Missouri, passed away on June 25, 2026, at the age of 81. He was the beloved husband of the late Judy Ruether (née Meyer) and is survived by his eight children: Michelle (Steven) Jost of Oakville, MO; Michael (Michelle) Ruether of Hawk Point, MO; Mark (Traci) Ruether of Hawk Point, MO; Melissa (Doug) Gildehaus of Troy, MO; Marcia Irby of Kirkwood, MO; Marcy (Paul) Arrowood of Cottleville, MO; Martin (Britney) Ruether of Lake St. Louis, MO; and Meredith (Scott) Hart of Warrenton, MO. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Delores Ruether and Vernita Ruether; 28 grandchildren: Ryan, Brendan, Devin, Jordan, Cade, Emma, Colby, Kent, Kase, Abygail, Kyle, Landon, Isabella, Zachary, Jack, Drew, Logan, Rachel, Clayton, Olivia, Grace, Elaina, John, Kate, Leo, Reagan, Reece, and Mason; and seven great-grandchildren: Remi, Sienna, Gavin, Ember, Piper, Brenley, and Jameson. John was preceded in death by his son, Bruce Ruether; his parents, Norbert and Leona Ruether (née Hellebusch); and his siblings, Alfred (Margie) Ruether, Viola (Alvin) Engemann, Maurice Ruether, Andrew Ruether and Louise Ruether.

John was united in marriage to the love of his life, Judy, on May 8, 1965, at St. Ignatius Catholic Church. Together for 58 years, they built a beautiful legacy rooted in faith, love, and family; devoted to one another and to raising their eight children.

John's Catholic faith was the foundation of his life. He was a long-standing parishioner of Holy Rosary in Warrenton, MO; St. Mary's in Hawk Point, MO; and St. Patrick's in Wentzville, MO. A quiet, prayerful man, John had an unwavering commitment to attending Sunday Mass and gave generously of his time and talents to his parish communities. He was an active member of the Holy Name Society, Knights of Columbus, the Parish Council, and the Cemetery Committee, consistently contributing his efforts and willingly serving as cook, griller, and volunteer in any capacity needed.

At age 18, John began his career as a drywall taper alongside his brother, Andrew. He maintained his membership in Painters District Council No. 2 for over 40 years. Demonstrating an entrepreneurial spirit, John co-owned Meyer Ruether Implement in Marthasville, MO, with his brother-in-law and best friend, Larry Meyer, where they sold farm equipment.

In 1977, John joined Laramie Drywall Co., and in 1993, he and Judy fulfilled a long-held dream by starting Ruether and Sons Drywall with their sons, Michael and Mark. After 20 years of building a successful business, John retired to pursue his passions: raising livestock, woodworking, and traveling. He also had an appreciation for automobiles, gardening, drawing and playing pinocle with friends.

John cherished his family above all else. Known for his strong work ethic and unwavering dedication, he was a steadfast source of support for his wife and children, never missing a day of work. He loved spending time with those he held dear and was a friend to many.

Though a man of few words, John's quiet wisdom was invaluable to those who sought his counsel. As a gentle leader and head of the family, he offered advice grounded in his life experiences. He enjoyed good conversation and a drink with friends, and his perspective was always worth hearing.

John will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. He is too well loved to ever be forgotten.

 

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial donations can be made to Masses or St. Vincent DePaul Society at St. Patrick Catholic Church.    https://giving.parishsoft.com/App/Form/a393b692-7728-48fb-aecc-99567002e627