RUTER, Elmer J. 1926-2005

RUTER, STOEHR, KNOCK

Posted By: Tammy (email)
Date: 5/16/2011 at 13:47:53

Elmer J. Ruter was born December 30, 1926, in rural Grundy County, near Wellsburg, the son of Herman E. and Etta (Stoehr) Ruter. Elmer received his education in Wellsburg, and graduated from high school there in 1944. After graduation Elmer began work at Beving Plumbing and Heating. On March 14, 1946, Elmer entered the United States Army, serving his country until April 11, 1947, when he was honorably discharged.

On August 19, 1947, Elmer was united in marriage to Irene L. Knock at the Wellsburg Reformed Church. Elmer and Irene lived in Wellsburg after their marriage until 1952 when they moved onto their farm. Elmer farmed actively until they moved back to Wellsburg in 1990. He enjoyed farming and continued to help out on the farm after retirement.

Elmer was a member of the Wellsburg Reformed Church and had formerly served as a Deacon and on the Consistory. Elmer had also been on the Wellsburg City Council for many years and also served on the Wellsburg School Board for eight years. He had been a former member of the Community Club and the Wellsburg Betterment Group. Elmer was an avid golder, and member of the hearing aid club. He enjoyed his grandchildren and his great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife Irene of Wellsburg, two daughters Debra Aalfs and her husband Terry of Wellsbug, Diane "Deester" Petersen and her husband Curt of St. Louis, Missouri; and one son Howard Ruter of West Des Moines, eight grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; one brother Eugene Ruter and his wife Thelma of Wellsburg; and one sister Erma Meyer and her husband Duane of Marshalltown.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

--Funeral card