On February 20, 2023, James Aaron Ruttkay passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family in Barron, Wisconsin, following a lengthy illness.

He was 64 years old. James (Jim) was born the eldest son of Richard and Sally Ruttkay (now of Onawa, IA) on October 18, 1958, in Sioux City, IA.

Jim attended school in the Sioux City School System. He was a 1978 graduate of North High School. Jim married Brenda Stovner on October 3, 1981. Together they raised five children until their marriage ended. Jim held various positions including Chef, Quality Control with IBP in Dakota City, SD, Parking Supervisor at The Metropolitan Club in Minneapolis, MN, and other positions. He truly was a “jack of all trades,” He worked until the onset of his illness at which time he moved in with, and was cared for by, his youngest daughter Amanda Ohlson and family. Jim enjoyed the outdoors, riding his motorcycle, caring for and raising rabbits, chickens, and various other animals. Jim also treasured the time he was able to spend with his grandchildren. He never tired of telling stories about his time with them.

Jim leaves behind his children, four daughters: Stephanie Snedeker (Dustin) of Hoven, SD, Brittany Ricks (Barnibus) of Liberal, KS, Nicki Merkle of Salina, KS, Amanda Ohlson (Gabe) of Hillsdale, WI, and two sons: Zac (Bud) Ruttkay of Barron, WI, and Christopher Schoepfer of Orlando, FL. To cherish his memory, he leaves behind his parents: Richard and Sally Ruttkay, siblings: Bradley Ruttkay (Teri) of Sioux City, IA, Daniel Ruttkay (Paula) of Sioux City, IA, Marla Patrick (Lynn) of Ft. Meyers, FL, (formerly of South Sioux City, NE), LeAnn Carter (Michael) of Hinton, IA, Shawna Scofield (Randy) of Sioux City, IA, Elizabeth Graves (Jerry Dean) of Sioux City, IA, Janene Ruttkay of Sioux City, IA, and Dawn Langhoff (Todd) of Mount Pleasant, TX, grandchildren, great grandchildren, many nieces/nephews, great nieces/nephews, as well as special extended family members, friends, and acquaintances: Frank Liston, Lori Grogan, Steven Liston, and Kathy Roberts.

Jim was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents: Lee Martin and Esther Martin-Haberman, paternal grandparents: Ivan and Elsie Ruttkay, a nephew: Joshua Patrick, and a great nephew: David Lozano. Jim was reunited with his beloved dog Moochie whom he loved and missed every day since his passing in 2014.

A celebration of life for Jim is scheduled for 1:00 pm on May 20, 2023, at the Community Center located at 312 Driftwood St. in Correctionville, IA. Condolences and memorials can be sent in care of Amanda Ohlson at 667 14½ Street, Hillsdale, WI 54733. Arrangements are with Rausch-Lundeen Funeral Homes, Cameron & Dallas, WI.

Last Update: Feb 27, 2023 9:13 am CST