Steven Ruda Obituary

To the Ruda Families....Norma and I were so saddened to hear of Steve's passing - thoughts of our childhood came rushing back - the Friday night visits at each other's house w/our parents, swimming in the pool, the picnics and short vacations. Russ and Steve were so much a part of our childhood. It was unfortunate that after high school, our paths seemed to lead in different directions - Steve's and Russ's to college and Norma and I to work. But Mom would get together with Mrs Ruda when she visited Wilmington and they would catch up. We would always heard of Steve's wonderful outlook on life, his sense of humor and laughter. Reading through the other comments, Steve indelibly touched alot of people along the way - he was on this earth much too short of a time but God must have needed him elsewhere. Please know that you and yours are continually in our hearts and prayers...."Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give your rest." Matthew 11:28 Martha, Bob and family; Norma, Johnny (Brown) and family

To Russ, Sharon, Kristen and families-
We are sorry about the death of your brother. I am thinking about you all and praying for God's peace and grace in your lives!
-------love--- liz and frank mcgowan, william and hugh

Steve sounds like a sweet, generous and energetic person. Obviously it runs in the family. Take care, Ruda family. Bless you.

I haven't had contact with Steve in Years, but did have a wonderful time knowing him in our college days. My condolences to the family.

Bob Kleeman
HM23

Steve and I became co-workers and friends in 2206 at Gevity HR in Sarasota, FL. Since both of us were former Chicagoans, we immediately had a lot in common. He was always a friendly, positive force in the workplace and he will be sorely missed.

To the entire Ruda family; In the crazy business of life I haven't had time to participate in one of my favorite pasttimes, reading the newspaper. I took a few minutes this evening to relax and thumb through. I was just stunned to see Steve's obituary. I haven't seen Steve in more than 35 years--we were friends at Grant South at NIU. Steve was always one of the nicest people--but to see how his life evolved just brought tears to my eyes. I have always tried to "Pay it Forward" myself and from this day forward, when I do I will think of Steve and do it for him as well. My sincere condolences to you all for the loss of a dear man who's time came far too soon. Sincerely, Jan Leasure

To the Ruda family -
I did not know Steven Ruda but after reading his obituary in the Sun Times, I had to write to express my sympathy in the loss of a truly great man. What an inspiration he must have been to his family and all who he came in contact with. After reading of him, I know I will try to pay it forward as he did. You are so lucky to have had him in your life, even though it was just 61 years. We need more people like him in this world.

All of our fondest thoughts and a wonderful lifetime of memories are with all the Ruda's; Steven, Brian, Tina, Elizabeth, Dan, Jackson Daniel, Annabelle, and Beverly. We will always remember Steven and all of us together in the backyards, in Michigan, going to the horse shows, Halloweens, New Year's Eves, etc etc. What a wonderful testimony to a very special life that we will not ever forget. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

All our Love, Always,

The Carroll Family

What a wonderful life Steve had! Even with the physical burdens that he had to experience,he remained upbeat and positive! In many ways he reminded me of my mother. I hope that everyone keeps a little bit of him with themselves as they go through their own lives. Life is good! Keep on the sunny side of life! Tony & Barb Geib

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Ruda family .

M Cooper Family

Steve, beloved Ruda, as we will always call you. You meant so much to all of us at Gevity, and you also became our special friend who would join us for dinner at the drop of a hat. We so enjoyed nice dinners on St. Armands Key in Sarasota and in downtown Sarasota. You were always game to spend time with us and you were always so sweet, passionate, and interested in whatever anyone had to say. Life has never known such an intelligent and gentle spirit as you. Long live Ruda. You will be very deeply missed. Until we see you again. All our love, Kim, Jessica and the folks at Gevity

GOD HAS A SPECIAL PLACE FOR GUYS LIKE YOU STEVE. FOR YOU WERE A VERY SPECIAL PERSON. I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER YOUR FANTASTIC SENSE OF HUMOR. I STILL USE YOUR JOKES FROM 30 YEARS AGO. MY CONDOLENCES TO ALL OF YOUR FAMILY MEMBERS, AND BEV. ROGER P. SCOTT CPA