Robert Vonruden

Robert VonRuden, 87, of Ottawa, passed away on Friday, September 22, 2023 at his home.

Visitation will be on Thursday, September 28, from 9:00am until 10:00am at Ottawa Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30am, Thursday, at St. Columba Catholic Church, with Msgr. Mark Merdian officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at St. Columba Cemetery.

Robert was born September 7, 1937, in Madison, WI, to John "Jack" and Elsie (Heintz) VonRuden. He married Rosemary Damron on March 30, 1965, in Oklahoma. She passed away February 16, 2009.

He served in the United States Army and earned the title as Drill Sergeant. After his time in the service, he worked for Caterpillar in Aurora as a foreman for over 30 years. He was extremely hard working. In his free time, he enjoyed traveling, especially to Northern Wisconsin to fish and snowmobile, going to Germany, and spending the winters in Florida. He and Rose loved Disney World and had loads of fun there over the years. He was a member of the American Legion and a lifetime supporter and member of St. Columba Church.

He is survived by his children, Debora (Tim) Hansen and Dennis (Barbara) Damron; his grandchildren, Alexander (Genevieve) Hansen, Christopher (Miriah Cronin) Hansen, and Stephen (Calie) Hansen; his great grandchildren, Caleb Rhoads, Rain Hansen, Harley Hansen, and one on the way.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 43 years, Rosemary; and his siblings, John (Verna) VonRuden and Duane (Jan) VonRuden.

Pallbearers will be Dennis Damron, Alexander Hansen, Christopher Hansen, Stephen Hansen; Ryan Mann, and Evan Mann.

Memorials may be directed to St. Columba Church.