Joseph Rutten

It is with heavy hearts and cherished memories that we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who left this world peacefully on October 30, 2025 to be reunited in heaven with the love of his life, Jeanne Rutten (Hauser).

Joe was a man of immense faith—faith that guided him, grounded him, and gave him peace throughout his life. He lived every day with gratitude and kindness, seeing the good in others and trusting in God’s plan. His gentle spirit and quiet strength were a reflection of the unwavering belief that carried him through every joy and every challenge.

Born with a kind soul, a quick wit, and a heart that beat strongest when surrounded by family, Joe was the proud father of four loving daughters, whose lives he filled with laughter, quiet wisdom, and unwavering support. His family grew over the years to include many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each of whom he treasured beyond measure and who adored their grandpa more than words could say. To all of them, he was more than a grandfather—he was the family jokester, their biggest cheerleader, and their best card-playing opponent. He never missed the opportunity to express how proud he was of each and every one of them.

Weekends were sacred in Joe’s world. Whether gathered at the family cottage or out at a favorite restaurant, he made sure every get-together was filled with big smiles, hearty laughs, and plenty of games. He believed family was God’s greatest gift, and he cherished every single moment with his.

Joe was the reigning king of cribbage, and he never turned down a round of cards or dice which he always played with a twinkle in his eye and a soft chuckle whether he won or lost. He was so proud of his “29 hand” in cribbage. Around his table, friendly competition and love went hand in hand.

A lifelong sports fan, Joe never missed a chance to cheer on the Green Bay Packers. He loved watching games, friendly wagers, pull tabs, and cheering for his team - win or lose, always with his big smile.

And of course, there was his Corvette—a symbol of the freedom and joy he carried through life. He always looked forward to the first warm spring day so he could enjoy the sun and the love of driving around in his Corvette.

Joe lived a life full of love, laughter, and devotion. He taught his family that time spent together is the greatest treasure and his legacy will live on in every family gathering, every card shuffled, and every burst of laughter that echoes through the generations.

Joe’s faith carried him all the way home. Those who love him are taking comfort in knowing that he is now resting peacefully in God’s embrace. Though our hearts are broken, we also take comfort in knowing that he is now back in the arms of his beloved Jeanne, together once more, watching over the family they built with so much love. His love will live on in the laughter and jokes of his grandchildren and in his memory.

Joe will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his Daughters: Debbie (Gene) Linskens, Julie (Brian) Schumann, Karen (Steve) Gilsdorf and Kristi Rutten-Weisbach (Phil). Grandchildren: Jenni (Nick) Fuss, Augie (Stacey) Linskens, Jason Linskens, Travis (Jessica) Linskens, Jamie (Ami) Schumann, BJ (Oksana) Schumann, Amber (Adam) Boehnlein, Stephanie (Joe) Bemis; Andy (significant other, Christy) Gilsdorf, Cole (Kayli) Gilsdorf; Meghann Weisbach and Jacob Weisbach. Great-grandchildren: Grace, Griffin and Grant Fuss, Joey and Morgan Linskens, Jackson and Charlie Linskens, Leanna Schumann, Mya and Mycah Boehnlein and Rhett, Brooks, Berkley and Sage Bemis. Survivors also include Jude and Betty Rutten, Theresa Driessen, Veronica Stueber and Marge (Rich) Solberg.

Joe was preceded in death by his loving wife, Jeanne; his newborn son, Joseph; and many cherished brothers, sisters and in-laws.