Michael Ruehlow

Michael J. "Mike" Ruehlow, age 51 of Watertown, passed away peacefully on Saturday evening, December 20, 2014 in the comfort of his home with family at his side. Mike was diagnosed with Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer in April of this year. A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Henry Catholic Church on Saturday, December 27th at 11:00 a.m. with Father Patrick Wendler and Monsignor Daniel Ganshert concelebrating. There will be a gathering in the Parish Center after Mass for fellowship and to greet the family. Memorials can be made to St. Henry Church and School or Rainbow Hospice Care. Mike was born on March 12, 1963 in Watertown to Harvey and Beverly (Stafeil) Ruehlow. Growing up on the family farm Mike learned the values that hard work and perseverance bring reward, and his reward was fishing. Mike attended Watertown High School and graduated in 1982. In October 1988 he married Heidi, and on February 20, 1991 he was blessed with twin sons, Brandon Michael and Beau Jess. His sons gave him much joy and pride in their accomplishments. Mike's love for family, friends and fishing gave him a full life with no regrets other than not having more time on this earth. Mike discovered the fun and feasibility of traveling by train, and rode the Amtrack to Colorado, Idaho and La Crosse to visit friends and family. His most recent highlight this year was taking the Amtrack train to Alaska for a Cruise and fishing Lake Erie for Walleye with his sons. In his spare time Mike kept up his seasonal garden, cuisine cooking, fish fries, wine and beer making and yes, fishing 12 months a year. His canine companion was always at his side. Following the sale of the farm in 1995 Mike was employed at Planar, ITW BLitzke and the last 9 years as Maintenance Supervisor at St. Henry Church and School. With his sons away at college, St Henrys became his extended family. Survivors include his sons, Beau and Brandon; father Harvey; sister, Jenna (Barry) Haney and their son Tyler; brother, Jeff and partner Kay; Ex-Spouse, Heidi and Mother-in law, Dixie Orsted. As well as nieces, nephews, relatives and many friends who shared his love for fishing. Mike was preceded in death by his mother; cousin, Andy Ruehlow-his best fishing buddy, and Father-in-law, Al Orsted. The family wishes to thank Rainbow Hospice Care for the support provided to Mike.

Service

Saturday, December 27, 2014 11:00 AM
St. Henry Catholic Church
412 N 4th St Watertown 53094, United States