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David Ruzich Obituary

Ruzich, David W. Age 58, of Whiting, passed away suddenly Thursday, October 13, 2011. Beloved Husband of Judy A. Ruzich nee Hylek Loving Father of Melissa A. (Fiancé "R.J." Tiller, III) Ruzich and late Brian D. Ruzich Cherished Son of Walter J. and late Dolores S. Ruzich nee Dobos Devoted Brother of Marla (Kirk) Hild and Luann (Brian) Jennings Son-in-Law of Dorothy "Busia" Hylek and late Fred Hylek Fond Uncle to Ashley, Steve Kieltyka, and Courtney Janiec Godfather of Gina (Justin) Koepl Devoted friend to many. David was a life long resident of the Whiting area. He was a graduate of Roosevelt High School where he met his wife Judy. He was a graduate of the Indiana College of Mortuary Science. He owned his first funeral home, Kosier-Ruzich, in 1975. He followed his first funeral home with Ruzich Funeral Home in Whiting and South Chicago along with Brown Funeral Home. He then owned Edgar Funeral Home in Oak Lawn and Sheldon-Goglen Funeral Home in Chicago. He further owned Owens-Ruzich Funeral Home in Whiting and LaHayne Funeral Home in Hammond. He was a former Lake County deputy coroner. He was loved by all who knew him and will be missed by even more. Funeral Service Friday, October 21, 2011 at 10:15 Am from OWENS-RUZICH FUNERAL HOME, 816 119th St., corner of (Rt. 41) Calumet Ave. at 119th St., Whiting to Sacred Heart Croatian Catholic Church, 2864 E. 96th St., Chicago for Mass of Christian Burial at 11 AM. Entombment St. John Cemetery Mausoleum, Hammond. Friends are invited to meet with the family at OWENS-RUZICH FUNERAL HOME on Thursday from 2 PM until 9 PM. For further information regarding services, please contact OWENS-RUZICH FUNERAL HOME at 219/ 659-0417.

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Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Oct. 18, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for David Ruzich

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Barb Matusik-Talbert

September 22, 2012

Its been almost a year and I still think of Dave alot and the horrible tragedy of his death. I pray for you Judy and hope God has given you the strength to endure your terrible loss. Know that you are still in my heart & in my prayers.

Linda Standridge(Lesniewski)

December 8, 2011

Dear Judy and Family, I'm so sorry, about David. I have fond thoughts of him in school...God Bless!

November 11, 2011

Dear Judy and Family,
David had this great voice and laugh..I remember well, in speech class, building a float, and other class activities. So sorry...
Jim G (Gino)

Wendy Prewitt

October 28, 2011

To the Ruzich Family,
My thoughts and prays go out to you and your loved ones. David was a good guy who like his family was alwas very kind to me.

Hetty Cohen

October 25, 2011

Hello Judy, I'm so sorry to hear about David. Bless you and take care of yourself. Hetty Cohen (Bohusz)

John Fetsis

October 23, 2011

To Melissa,R.J., and the entire Ruzich family,

I enjoyed Dave's company greatly over the past few years. His warm smile,welcoming personality, and his contagious laugh will be greatly missed. I know you all will find the strength to make it through this.

Jeanne & Bruce Shimala

October 23, 2011

Judy, we send you our love & sincere sympathy on Dave's tragic loss. We ran into Dave when we were back in Whiting 2 years ago, and enjoyed catching up. He was still the same great guy. You will remain in our thoughts and prayers.

Lisa Olivotto

October 23, 2011

Dear, Judy / Melissa & Ruzich family,
May you find comfort threw your faith, family & friends, to help you threw the darkest days, Dave, was an outstanding man with a Heart of Gold & will be deeply missed by all who where Blessed to know him ! Memories of him will live on in your Hearts forever ! with our Deepest Sympathy & Love Joe & Lisa, Joey, Annie

Gail Kus

October 22, 2011

Judy and Melissa: My deepest sympathy to both of you. I hope you find comfort in the many loving memories you have. Take care.

October 22, 2011

My deepest sympathy to the Ruzich family during this most difficult time. Dave was a very caring and generous person to work for. I will always remember the many laughter filled evenings spent at Papa Joe's.
Sincerely, Lon and Chris Donovan

Pete & Lisa McEnery

October 21, 2011

Our thought's and prayers are with you all during this sad time. Doc was a loving, caring man who touched an entire community. May you find strength & comfort in your memories of him. May God bless you all.

Carol Chesser

October 21, 2011

On October 13, 2011 a very unique and special man was taken from us. Thank you Dave for your friendship, bear hugs and warm smiles. Of which, I'll forever be grateful.

Eva

October 21, 2011

To make a difference in others' lives was the unspoken philosophy of Dave's life. His generosity and loving spirit touched many. May Judy, Melissa, and Busia find comfort in these memories.

Wendy Davis

October 21, 2011

My family and I express our deepest condolences for you. We mourn with you today. My heart and prayers go out to your family. we are so sorry and so sadden. We are at a loss for words and hope you find comfort in his memory.

October 20, 2011

My deepest sympathy Judy, to you and your family. You know I loved both of you. I will always remember the lunches, dinners and laughs we had while I was at Steel City Bank. Dave was a kind and caring man and will be missed by many. Sincerely, Lynn Divine-Choate, Schererville

October 20, 2011

Dear Ruzich Family, I am so very of David's passing. During my families sorrowful time, Dave took care of us with class & dignity. May he R.I.P. Sincerely, Camille C. Borozan

Terri Penkala-Kaminski

October 20, 2011

My deepest condolences to Judy and Melissa on your sad loss.
I recall my high school days at ECR spent with Judy and David fondly.
I will keep you in my prayers.

Kompier Family

October 20, 2011

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow

October 20, 2011

My deepest sympathy to Dave’s family and his many friends. My thoughts and prayers to you all. Dave was a wonderful man, so generous and so very caring. He will be missed greatly, but always remembered.

Nancy & Joe Zerza

October 20, 2011

Judy, Busia and Melissa. Our hearts are broken as we remember our friend, Dave. He will be always in our heart, and you are now and ever.

Jim & Karen Muratori

October 20, 2011

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Doc was a wonderful,caring person and will be greatly missed.

Marilyn Schaufele

October 20, 2011

Judy and Melissa,
My God bless you and keep you during this sad, sad time. Dave was a wonderful, caring, and generous man who not only gave the best advice but also knew how to listen with love. May you find strength knowing the arms of so many are wrapped around you.

Rita D'arcy

October 20, 2011

Dear Judy and Melissa: I was so sad to hear of Dave's passing. I will always remember his kindness during my and my family's sorrow. He showed such kindness to us all during those times. I believe now that he and Brian are looking down on us all.

Paula Kraus

October 20, 2011

Dear Melissa,
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May your happy memories with your dad help you get through your hard days.

Ray and Paulette Strabavy

October 20, 2011

Our sincere sympathy to the Ruzich family at this very very sad time. May Dave rest in peace in the arms of Our Lord.

Kenneth Ritter

October 20, 2011

Dear Judy, and Melissa, My deepest prayers and warmest wishes are with you both during this time of grief and sorrow. I remember David with a heart of gold, a spirit for life full of zest and joy. He will surely be missed here on earth but will excel in the heavens above, as he watches over you all, as he was so good at.

Phil & Irene Smith

October 20, 2011

Judy, Melissa & Ruzich Family My thoughts and prayers are with you all! I was so saddened to hear of David's death. I will treasure all the fond memories, (grade school, high school and being bestman at your wedding). And, may you find comfort in all your memories. May God bless you all! Love and prayers,

Mike Rivera

October 20, 2011

My continued thoughts and prayers go out, to the entire Ruzich family. May you find comfort, in the arms of God, during your time of grief.

Mary Fetsis

October 20, 2011

My deepest and sincere condolences. I respected and admired your father. May your memories of him and all you shared bring you comfort.

Grace Hernandez

October 20, 2011

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Mark O'Drobinak

October 20, 2011

Luann & Family, our sincerest condolences and prayers for comfort and peace go out to you & your family. We are saddened for the loss of such a great person.

Chuck Falda

October 20, 2011

March 19,1975 my Father passed away. Dave took care of everything for me. He even picked me up the following day to purchase the casket. He wanted to take me to help me when I was hurting the most and he didn't want me to make the mistake that many do at that time. I stayed friends with Dave since then. I'll miss him.To the Ruzich my deepest sympathies.

Stephanie Gancarski

October 19, 2011

Although I have only known Doc about a year and a half I can definitely say that I'm going to miss him. He was always so kind-hearted, joyful, fun, and cracking jokes with someone. His death is definitely a shocker and my condolences go out to all his family and friends.

Mary,Art, John & Cristina Seth

October 19, 2011

Dear Judy, Melissa, and Family,
Our most heartfelt and deepest sympathy
to all of you. We will always cherish our
memories of Dave.
Love, the Seth Family

Debra Syverson

October 19, 2011

My thoughts and prayers are with the Ruzich Family,Dave will be missed.
Debra from Phil Smidt's

Heather Panshyn

October 19, 2011

Melissa & Family
My thoughts and prayers are with you all through this heartbreaking time. God Bless!

Quality Cleaners

October 19, 2011

Sending prayers to the Ruzich family and friends! May he rest in peace. May God bless all of you!

Mike Christophersen

October 19, 2011

Doc as i knew him, for the last 2 years, treated my family and i as if if i knew him all my life. He will be missed by all.He made a impression on my life with his friendship and smile. My deepest sympathy goes out to the Ruzich Family.Always think of the good times
God Bless
Mike Christophersen

Jake & Misty Schwartz

October 19, 2011

Our deepest sympathy goes out to Melissa, Judy, and the entire Ruzich family. Words cannot express how sorry we are for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this incredibly difficult time. Dave was a great man who will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Crystal Vaughn

October 19, 2011

Deepest sympathy to the Ruzich family from Crystal (Cole) Vaughn, classmate.

Rudy & Lisa Greenleaf

October 19, 2011

Our deepest sympathy goes out to the entire Ruzich Family. Dave was a great man and will definitely be missed by all who knew him.

Jerome & Karen Kusbel

October 19, 2011

Dear Ruzich family, we are so very sorry for your loss. I will treasure the memories I have growing up and spending time with Marla and David...even our kitchen battles!Marla, You know how to reach me...please do.

Bonnie Ubik

October 19, 2011

To the Ruzich Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time of sorrow and hoping that with all of the kind words that everyone has left on this guest book will help you all get through this difficult time.

George Krieger

October 19, 2011

My deepest sympathy to the entire Ruzich family. Words can't express how sad I was on hearing of Dave's tragic death. "Doc" was truly "one of a kind." One of the nicest and most generous people I've ever met. He will be deeply missed.

DeWayne and Chrisie Gray

October 19, 2011

We have never met a person as caring and giving as Dave. The Office won't be the same. You will be missed Doc. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Ruzich family.

October 19, 2011

My thoughts and prayers are with the family. Doc was a wonderful person. I am glad I had the pleasure of knowing him. he will be truly missed by all.

Tony & Stacia Andello

October 19, 2011

Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. It is very hard to find words to express how sorry we are for your loss. Mr. Ruzich will be missed by so many, but he will always be with you. God Bless

Michael Rusnack

October 19, 2011

My deepest sympathy to the Ruzich family. It was many years since first met Dave, we have not made contact since, however his loss is still felt.

Jeanette Jancosek & family

October 19, 2011

Melissa, Judy and Ruzich Family,
My deepest sympathy for you and your family on such a tremendous loss. Dave was a wonderful man and extremely generous person. We have truly lost the best. Peace and prayers being sent your way. God bless you all.

Dan & Theresa (Barlo) Deel

October 19, 2011

Praying for the Ruzich family and the many loving friends of "Doc" who are mourning his passing.

Elaine Stephan

October 19, 2011

Dear Ruzich family and friends... my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time -- there are no words to describe how I am feeling. Dave was a wonderful man and he will truely be missed by so many especially Andrea and I. He will always be "Papa Ruzich" to us. Remember he is always with us.

Martha Gawalek-Muha

October 19, 2011

It is so hard to find words to express our sorrow. Our prayers and sympathy for the Ruzich family. I will always have the fond memories I was blessed to share with Dave.

Jaci Ulm-Pantelis

October 19, 2011

Dear Ruzich Family,
You have my deepest sympathy, I went to high school with David, we use to get in trouble by talking in the cafeteria line, but we kept talking..he was one heck of a great guy. May God Bless you and now you have that special angel watching over you.

Tommy Kidd, Amy, and the kids, Justin, Jessica, Brianna, and Kailey

October 19, 2011

Doc had the amazing and uncanny ability to always be upbeat and happy. The first thing you you got out of Dave was a big smile and a warm hello. Every single person he has ever met knows that. He always asked how the kids were no matter how busy he was, even if he was walking out the door. True to form, he left this world trying to help somebody out. He wouldn't have it any other way. Dave will be truly missed by everyone he has ever come across. Judy, Melissa, Luann, keep smiling, that is what he left you with.

Michelle Baron

October 19, 2011

My condolences to the Ruzich family.

Morgan Sikora

October 19, 2011

Melissa, Mrs. Ruzich, Busia, and the whole Ruzich Family,
You have my deepest sympathy for the loss of Mr. Ruzich. He touched so many people's lives and will be deeply missed. But I know that we all have a very special guardian angel watching over us now. Love you!

Lillian Gomez

October 18, 2011

Words cannot express the feeling of lost that I am feeling. I called you Thursday just to say hello; I wanted to get a drink with you, but later that day I found out what happened to you. Dave, you were a great friend and you will be missed by many. My hearts and prayers go out to you and your family, Judy and Melissa. I know when I look above that your spirit is shining down on us.

Linda (Rivers) Dickens

October 18, 2011

My sympathies to the entire Ruzich family. Dave was such a nice, friendly, happy guy. He will never be forgotten.

Joe Rivers

October 18, 2011

Melissa (& family), I am so sorry to hear about your dad. He was such a nice man, always smiling! I remember all the times I stayed at your house with Brian while growing up. He will be missed. My deepest sympathy to your entire family.

Kelly, Mark and Megan Lazarine

October 18, 2011

Melissa and family,

There are no words to express how sorry we all are for your loss. Our deepest sympathy goes out to you all. Even though I never had the pleasure of meeting your father I know that he must of been a wonderful man because he raised such an amazing daughter, so sweet and kind. Melissa I know how close you were to your dad and how much you loved him. Just remember that he will always be with you in your heart and in the memories you shared. May God bless you and your entire family.

Denice DuBall

October 18, 2011

Our deepest sympathies are with you and your family during this very sad time.

The Ross and DuBall Families
Janice, Marshall, Terri, Lynn,
Denice and her Family.

Lenny and Cindy Franciski

October 18, 2011

Our condolences to the Ruzich Family. "Doc" was a great man. We will miss him dearly.

Shannon Carter

October 18, 2011

My thoughts and prayers are with the Ruzich family during this time of sorrow.

Donna Leal

October 18, 2011

Words can not express how sorry I am for the Ruzich Family & the Friends that his smiling face touch. Doc was such a good man, that will never be forgotten. Thank You for being such a ROCKSTAR with us in Vegas.I am honored to have known this one of a kind man.I will miss you dearly.

Erin De Hoyos( Rigg)

October 18, 2011

Melissa Judy and the Ruzich family. I am sorry for your loss you all are in my heart and prayer. Mr Ruzich will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Nanette Boyer

October 18, 2011

My sympathies are with the entire Ruzich Family. Doc was a very kind, caring and giving person. He was always smiling and always had something positive to say. He will be truly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Laurann Yager

October 18, 2011

Doc,
I will never forget all the talks, texts, meals, cocktails or football "clap when I clap" Sundays. Your smiling face and kind, loving heart will be greatly missed and always remembered. Until we meet again, my friend....
HUGS from your "mill mouse"

Laurann Yager

October 18, 2011

Melissa, RJ, Judy & Bushia,
My sincere condolences on your loss. He will be missed by all who knew him.

MaryKay Hruskocy Scott

October 18, 2011

Luann and the rest of the Ruzich family,

Although I didn't know your brother please know that you have my deepest sympathy during this difficult time. May knowing he is in a better place help get you through the difficult days ahead.

Eli Panayotovich

October 18, 2011

My deepest sympathy goes out to Judy, Melissa, and the entire Ruzich family. Dave was one of the nicest and most generous people I’ve ever met. He will be truly missed by all who knew him. I am so glad I had the pleasure to reconnect with him and Melissa after all these years, and I will never forget all the good times we had at The Office. It will never be the same without him. I love you Dave, and you too Melissa.

Jennifer & Daniel Harris and Family

October 18, 2011

Our deepest sympathies for your loss. "Doc" touched so many lives and will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved him.

October 18, 2011

Judy, I am so sorry for your great loss. We will all miss Dave and we will keep you in our prayers. Love always Larry and Louise Law Tami-Lou's

October 18, 2011

My thoughts and prayers are with Judy and her family. May God Bless you.


Kathleen Creviston Kennedy South Carolina

October 18, 2011

Our deepest sympathy to you Judy on your loss. May the Holy Spirit comfort you. We will keep you in our prayers. May God's strength be the guiding force in your life. Cherish your memories.
High School Friends,
Lillie (Battle) Montgomery and Robbie (Barnes) Smith

Brian Domsich

October 18, 2011

Doc, you will truly be missed. It's rare to meet someone who was so generous and caring. The first time you met Doc, you felt like he's been your friend for your entire life. No one who ever met him will be the same now that he's gone. My deepest condolences to Melissa and Dave's entire family. Like you've told me so many times, Love ya Doc, be safe.

Terri Bigheart

October 18, 2011

My thoughts and prayers are with Judy, Melissa and everyone David touched in his life. May you find comfort in all the memories you shared together. May God bless you.

Tracy Burbich

October 18, 2011

I am so saddened by this tragic loss. Dave made me always feel welcome and comfortable whenever and where ever I saw him. A real friend who wouldn't harm a soul. I will miss his smiling face and big warm hugs. My sincere sympathy to his entire family. I will remember the fun times we had together.

Grant to your servant, O Lord, blessed repose and eternal memory.
Eternal memory my friend.

Michael and Dawn Strabavy

October 18, 2011

In loving memory of Doc, who was a good-hearted soul. We were very fortunate to have known such a wonderful man and to have treasured memories with Doc. We will love you and miss you always. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this time.

Ken Jansky

October 18, 2011

My condolences & prayers go out to Melissa and the entire Ruzich family. Your dad was a very generous & wonderful man.

Jennifer Morando

October 18, 2011

My most heartfelt condolences go out to you Melissa and your family. Your father was a wonderful and caring man. May you take comfort in knowing how many lives he touched and how much he was loved by many. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

paul owens

October 18, 2011

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

craig,regina,alexis Owens

October 18, 2011

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Ollie Hubbard

October 18, 2011

Judy and Melissa, my heart is full of grief that words can not express. Your loss is much more than I can comprehend, I pray that God keeps you both in his arms during this trial that has come upon your lives. I love you both so much, you are two of the most kindhearted people that anyone could ever know, i will forever cherish your love and friendship and always be in arms reach whenever you need a shoulder. I love you both so dearly. Love, Ollie

Shawn Turpin

October 18, 2011

My deepest sympathy to the entire Ruzich family. Doc was one of the nicest and most generous people I’ve ever met. RIP my friend.

Jennifer Bannister

October 18, 2011

My sincerest condolences to his family and friends, Doc seemed to me to be a very nice man and I hope that everyone who knew him can find comfort in this time of grief.

Michele Saliga and Rick Godinez

October 18, 2011

To the entire Ruzich Family- You are in our thoughts and prayers. Dave was one of the nicest people we have ever met. He touched so many lives and will be greatly missed. We lost a great friend, but gained a guardian angel.
Thank you for all the great memories Doc. We will miss you Hollywood!

Chrissy Edwards Klocek

October 18, 2011

Judy, Melissa, Marla, Luanne, Mr. Ruzich and extended family of Daivd---we were saddened when we heard of your loss. Our sympathies are with the family and our prayers are with David; May God Bless and keep Daivd with the angels in Heaven. I will always remember David's kindness to all who knew him growing up in Roxana.

Dilbeck Family

October 18, 2011

Judy, Melissa and all the friends and loved ones of Dave, we send our deepest sympathies for your loss. Dave had a very unique knack for making everyone feel as if they were important to him. He was generous in spirit, in his affections and so much of himself. He will be missed. God bless all of you as you try to make sense out of the senseless. Rest in Peace, Dave!

Amie Collins

October 18, 2011

I had the pleasure of meeting Dave eariler this year. He brought a smile to my face and others. He will be deeply missed.

The Janek Family

October 18, 2011

Those we love do not go away,
they walk beside us everyday.
Unseen, unheard but always near,
still loved, still missed, still very dear.
Our memories will never die,
as time goes on and days go by.
Your presence we miss,
your memories we treasure.
Loving you always,
and forgetting you never.

Pam Wysocki

October 18, 2011

Our heart and prayers go out to Judy and Melissa. David was a kind man and he will be missed greatly by many.
Pam, Stephanie and Thomas

Michael Chovan Chrissy Fernandez

October 18, 2011

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Dave's family. Doc was a very kind, caring and giving person. He touched so many of our lives in so many ways. Doc you will truly be missed by all your friends and family. It's not going to be the same without you. Luv ya Doc!

Jim Berkowicz

October 18, 2011

My sympathies are with the entire Ruzich family. Its been years since I have talked with David (he helped me with a college project about the mortuary business), but the news of his death struck me as if I had just talked to him yesterday. David and Marla and all of his family will be in my prayers.

Mike Irvine

October 18, 2011

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

October 18, 2011

My deepest condolences to the whole Ruzich family in there time of need.Thoughts and prayers are with you all even though i only knew Luann.Frank ( Gumby ) Gumkowski.

Janis & Mary Lynn Tobias

October 18, 2011

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Jesse Gomez

October 18, 2011

I had the pleasure of meeting David earlier this year. He was very friendly and welcoming. What a nice man.

My sympathies to the many people who's lives he touched. May he rest in peace.

Mary Giapponi

October 18, 2011

Our condolences to Judy and Melissa. Dave was such a friendly man who was always giving to others. We hope time will heal your family. Mary and Tom Giapponi.

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