Obituaries
Robert “Bob” Ruhstorfer II
March 29, 1952 - April 3, 2024
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VISITATION
April 11, 2024 | 4:00 - 7:00 P.M. -
Yurs Funeral Home
405 East Main Street
St. Charles, Illinois 60174 - Memorial Service
- April 11, 2024 | 7:00 P.M.
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Yurs Funeral Home
405 East Main Street
St. Charles, Illinois 60174 -
Burial Location
Private
In Memoriam: Robert “Bob” Ruhstorfer II – Family Patriarch and Business Pioneer
Robert “Bob” Ruhstorfer II, a visionary in the water softener and filtration industry and cherished family man, passed away at the age of 72, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, love, and unwavering dedication. Born March 29, 1952 to Robert Ruhstorfer Sr. and Jean Marie Beech in Bay City, MI, Bob departed from this world on April 3, 2024 in St. Charles, Illinois.
Bob’s extraordinary business acumen, entrepreneurial spirit, creativity and unyielding determination propelled him to the forefront of the water industry. He was an influential member for many years, serving terms as President of the Water Quality Association, Culligan Dealers Association of North America, as well as serving on the board of the Water Quality Research Foundation, leaving an indelible mark that will be felt for generations to come. For his career, he received the WQA’s Reagents Award, International Award of Merit and Lifetime Membership Award.
Beyond his countless professional accomplishments and accolades, Bob was a man of diverse interests and passions. His love for classic cars, particularly Corvettes, was matched only by his enthusiasm for the timeless melodies of the Beatles. Yet, his greatest joy was found on the Great Lakes and the tranquil waters of Lake Charlevoix where he spent countless treasured moments boating with his beloved family.
Bob’s devotion to family was unparalleled. He shared 40 years of marriage with his caring wife, Joannie, and together they raised five children: Tracey (John) Anargyros, Rebecca Ruhstorfer, Arianne (Russell) Smith, Robert (Cynthia) Ruhstorfer III, and Richard (Kelsey) Ruhstorfer. His adoration extended to his 11 grandchildren: Mackenzie A., Mackenzie Z., Hailey, Jake, Lilyana, Preston, Elizabeth, Madelyn, Byron, Brooklyn, and Brielle, who will forever cherish their “Papa”. His legacy will continue to grow with another grandson this Spring.
In addition to his immediate family, Bob is survived by his siblings Carolyn, Sandy, Mike and Ken. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Ruhstorfer Sr. and Jean Marie Beech, and siblings Jerry, Tim, and Brother-in-Law Onslow “Rudy” Rudolph.
Bob’s presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His wisdom, kindness, and tremendous love have left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire and uplift those whose lives he touched.
Services to honor and celebrate the life of Robert “Bob” Ruhstorfer II will be held on Thursday April 11, 2024 from 4:00pm to 7:00pm, at Yurs Funeral Home (405 E Main St, St. Charles, IL 60174). Additional memorial services will be held in Michigan and Texas which will be announced shortly, providing an opportunity for family and friends to come together and pay their respects to a remarkable man who left an immeasurable imprint in the hearts and lives of so many.
May Bob’s soul find eternal peace, and may his memory continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Donations can be made in Bob’s memory to Shriners Hospitals for Children (lovetotherescue.org) and sent to Shriners Children’s, PO Box 947765, Atlanta, GA30394
Condolences
Greg and Susannah Reyneke from Orem, UT
"Bob was a great friend and mentor, he uplifted all that he worked with, and left an indelible impression on the water quality improvement industry. It was a privilege to know him."
Larry Ruhstorfer from Caseville, MI
"Cousin Bob was an incredible man! He was not only a leader in his industry but an adored member of his extended family. Always enthusiastic and positive! I admired him in so many ways - just wonderful to be around. Bob will be greatly missed but his legacy will carry on through his kids, grandkids and all those that he touched."
Kristine Diegel from Gaylord, MI
"Bob graduated with my class of 1970. Marlette High School. He was then and still a very great guy. May God bring his family peace in countless memories to cherish. Missed by all who knew Bob."
Dan Leary from Lombard , IL
"My condolences to the family. Bob's love and leadership will be dearly missed. May God comfort you in your time of grieving."
Thomas Ewers from Plantersville, TX
"My condolences to all the family. I have only known Bob for a short period of time, I will miss him. I respect what he has done for this Industry, and wished to learn more from him. He will be greatly missed. We are praying for the family."
Gladys M Girardot Simon from MEARS, MI
"That smile he always had was sincere. Our condolence to your whole family"
Peter & Donna Waelti from Denver, CO
"Bob helped so many in and outside the Water Treatment industry to reach their potential and fulfill their dreams. I was one of them. He took me under his wings and taught me so much. As a human being he was a shining role model as well and he definitely will be missed, but NEVER forgotten. At least in my books for sure. Our sincere condolences to his wonderful wife Joannie, their children, grand children and the rest of the family. R.I.P. Bob, you definitely were one of a kind, God must have some plans for you!"
James and Agnes Wark from Temple, TX
"James Wark I will miss him dearly. He was a good friend and mentor to both myself and wife. He loved his family both at home and extended through Culligan network. My sincere condolences to the family as they made the biggest sacrifice in sharing his fatherhood to all of us at Culligan."
David A Davies from Houston, TX
"Bob was a gentleman, a friend and a mentor. He had vision, tenacity, and a diplomatic demeanor that made him a leader. I will very much miss him as a friend, and working together with him on industry issues."
Ken Hampton from Elm Grove , LA
"Bob was a great leader and treated everyone as special. He always had a kind word and led by example. Bob was an inspiration that helped influence my life. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of yours RIP You will be missed"
Edward Meil from Lisle, IL
"I worked for Bob for 10 years at Aquion. Bob’s leadership style blended strength, passion, and humility. He had a keen understanding of the water treatment business, and he helped me to understand the challenges and courage required of our dealers to operate their businesses. God rest his soul."
Robbie, Liz, Sarah, & Elizabeth Michels from Stuart, FL
"This a total shocker! Bob was just here visiting me 3 weeks ago. He looked great! I still don’t believe it. I’ve sent several texts to him to see if he answers like we did about everyday. Bob and I were best friends for over 40 years. We both grew up in the same business and worked together for years. He was the best friend, husband, father, grandfather, brother, cousin, business partner, or role model anyone could ever want! I’m sure God knew what he getting with Bob. I will miss him forever! I loved Bob! RIP my friend."
Lynn McKinley from WASHINGTON, MI
"Dearest Becky, Tracey, Joanie and family, I was so saddened to learn of Bob's passing. He was one of the first friends of Ray's that I had the opportunity to know. He was a model of integrity in business, generous, patience, kindness, a great Dad and friend to many. My sincere condolences to all of you. Sadly, I have been down this road recently and offer my support and experience in the days and months to come. Love and hugs to all. Lynn"
Mary Lynn Brichetto from Chicago, IL
"Words cannot describe how saddened I am to hear this shocking news. The loss of a great man like you is something that can never be recovered. You will truly be missed!"
Kathy Javers from Schaumburg, IL
"I am deeply saddened by the news of Bob's passing. I worked with Bob for 17 years at Aquion and have always had a deep respect for his kind, compassionate management style. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to keep in touch with Bob over the years and feel it was a true privilege to become friends with him.Joanie, my deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. May your memories help you through this difficult time.Bob, rest in peace knowing how many lives you touched in such a positive way, mine included. You will never be forgotten."
Brenda & John Blount from New Braunfels, TX
"Bob will be missed not only as the consummate professional whose life’s work was to better the water treatment industry but more importantly as a friend. RIP my friend.Brenda and I offer our sincere condolences to the Ruhstorfer family."
Anne Arza from Libertyville, IL
"my deepest condolences to your family. I had the honor of working with Bob for several years and will miss him."
Tom and Judi Brown from Hillman , MI
"So so dorry Tracy and Becky. Our hearts cry for you both. Prayers for strength and peace. We love you both so very much. Hug the kids from us also."
Janice DeRusha from Fond du Lac, WI
"I worked for Bob for several years in Texas. He was a great mentor who taught me a lot about business and being fair. He will truly be missed and loved forever. Rest in peace and thank you for all your kindness and fatherly advice through the years."
Antoine & Lucie Elias from Blainville, Quebec. CANADA, IL
"Words fail me to express how upset I was when I heard the bad news. Our thoughts are with you. Bob will be in our prayers. All our condolences to Joannie and Family.Antoine & Lucie Elias"
Stephen Bennett from Tomball , TX
"Bob was a fair man and a great boss. May he rest peacefully."
Daina Grace from Victoria, TX
"Having Bob as a member of TWQA and getting to know him for 20+ years was truly a blessing in my life. Bob was always a True gentleman willing to help wherever needed. The footprint left behind by Bob is huge in the lives of those who knew him. I thank God For blessing us with him. Rick and I wish his family Peace and comfort in the trying days ahead. Rest assured we will all see him again one day."
Rick Keck from Irving, TX
"My Friend Bob. You were my mentor and friend for over 40 years. during that time, I watched you and learned from you on how to treat people kindly and with respect. I saw how with everyone you took the time to actually teach people how to do a job well. I kidded you on how if someone asked you what time it was you would teach them how to build a watch. I am so glad you took the time to teach me how to build a watch. Bob, you touched and changed so many lives for the better. The greatest compliment any man can get is you left the world a better place than you found it. Thank you for changing my life. Your friend always Rick K"
Earl Naegele from Batavia, IL
"To the extended Ruhstorfer Family. Our condolences.The Peerless-AV Family."
Toni R Jakubowski from Hummelstown, PA 17036, PA
"Dear Joannie & family, Bob was one of Rick and my dearest and longest friends. He and Rick met in 5th grade. As many of you will know Rick & I went together from jr. high on. Rick & Bob were such jokesters always finding things to crack each other up...throughout the years they shared a love of flying, boating, golfing later Moter-cycling, anything that would put air on their faces. It's funny in school most of the teachers would not have picked either to become successful - because of their love of life & having fun!! Yet both excelled completely in their career! Both their careers took them all over the world. We ended up living near each other a few times. We shared so many precious sweet memories together. Rick was best man in Joannie and Bob's wedding. On one of Bob's last visit's with us enjoying a dinner in Charlevoix he again shared with us that his beautiful wife Joannie was back home taking care of grandkids, and he told us stories of his pride in each of their children and those precious grandchildren. I will forever miss hearing him and Rick's laughter and believe it's even greater in heaven!"
Ricky Jakubowski from Providence , RI
"Words cannot express such moments. Our family's prayers and hearts are with you in this time. My dad and Bob were best friends such childhood. One of my first memories was being the ring bearer at Bob and Joannie's wedding. They bought me a fishing pole and that was a really big deal and extravagant gift as a little kiddo. Throughout the years, my parents would reconnect with Bob and Joannie and would be so excited to see old life long friends, hanging out in Charlevoix or getting on a boat together. Two years ago my father Rick passed away, and during that time Bob was very present and communicative with my dad in those tough last days. Bob very thoughtfully and lovingly sent my dad tons of memories and support in that time. They also visited my mom shortly after my father's passing, and Bob went around the house, fixed lightbulbs and other things that were needed as she was alone. It's the little things in life that count and that are meaningfully remembered in this short life, and friendship and genuine faithful relationships should not be taken for granted. Thanks Bob for being a truly good friend to my dad and mom. You always brought joy and laughter to us, and we are eternally grateful. Love you all. Ricky and the Jakubowski family."
Joshua Duff from Irving , TX
"I only knew Bob a short amount of time but I remember him because of how he didn't have a filter at meetings and how he spoke his mind and how professional he was at speaking his mind. He always had the company's best interest at heart in the meetings and always treated people with respect . He also went out of way to educate people on how to do a job well. I am going to deeply miss him for his leadership and his work ethic. RIP Bob"
Jim Wark from Temple , TX
"I will miss him dearly. He was a good friend and mentor to both myself and wife. He loved his family both at home and extended through Culligan network.My sincere condolences to the family as they made the biggest sacrifice in sharing his fatherhood to all of us at Culligan."