Rita R. Ruge, 74, Merrill, died Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at Hospice House in Wausau after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born April 25, 1937 to the late Gerald E. and Marie C. (Kahoun) Ristow. She married Richard Ruge in Wisconsin Rapids on August 13, 1960 and enjoyed 51 wonderful years together.
Rita graduated from Wisconsin Rapids Lincoln High School in 1955. She went on to earn her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Studies from the UW Stevens Point in 1959. Rita was a home maker who was very active in church Bible Study and may other church activities. Rita was also a volunteer for the Merrill Food Pantry. She was an avid sports fan of the Packers, Badgers and Brewers. Rita enjoyed bird watching and family gatherings. She was a member of Christ United Methodist Church.
Survivors include her husband, Dick Ruge, Merrill; three sons; David (Lisa) Ruge, Madison, Dennis (Melissa) Ruge, Merrill, and Daniel Ruge, Madison; four grandchildren, Kyle, Amanda, Alexander and Matthew Ruge; two brothers, Jere (Brenda) Ristow, Mosinee, and John (Byrnace) Ristow, Hillsboro, OR. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Services will be held 1:00 PM Saturday, August 20, 2011 at Christ United Methodist Church, Merrill. The Rev. Don Entenman will officiate. Visitation will be from 11:30 – 1:00 PM at the church. Burial will be in Merrill Memorial Park. Donations may be made to the Merrill Food Pantry or Christ United Methodist Church. Waid Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.