Obituaries

Dennis Wayne Rutberg

10/02/1951 - 30/06/2023

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Obituary For Dennis Wayne Rutberg

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our much-loved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle. Dennis Rutberg passed away June 30th, 2023 at the age of 72 after a long, hard struggle with dementia at the Grande Prairie Care Centre.

Dennis is survived by his wife of fifty years, Carol-Ann; sons Wayne (Corrie), Randy, and Gary (Gillian); Grandchildren Keandra, Alyssa, Mason, and Liam; Brother Rod (Debbie, Cory, Kim), and sister Judy (Barry, Maury, Dustin). He is predeceased by his father Bill, mother Corine, brother Gary, and grandson Avery.

Dennis was born February 10, 1951 in Grande Prairie to Bill and Corine Rutberg, eventually marrying the love of his life Carol-Ann (Schnell) in August 1973. He was a kind, thoughtful soul who touched many lives. He will always be remembered by his very strong handshake and happy greeting. Dennis took pride in everything he did. His proudest moments were the births of his three sons.

Dennis was always involved in sports. He was never one to be idle. Summers – he played fastball, enjoyed camping, biking, gardening, hiking, and his favorite…nature walks. Winters – he could be found downhill skiing, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, curling, and hockey. If he wasn’t busy participating in any of these, he would surely be in his workshop finding ways to perfect the beauty of his home and knocking off items on the never ending ‘honey do list’.

He was a journeyman welder of forty years, where he earned the nickname ‘Sparky’. Dennis was a perfectionist and loved his job, which was very evident in his work.

One of the greatest joys in his later years, was taking his grandchildren on nature walks and camping, where the greatest memories were made. A most memorable adventure was an epic hike with his good friend Kevin O’Toole. Conquering the Chilkoot Trail from Alaska to British Columbia, reliving the days of the Klondike Gold Rush.

We would like to extend a huge thank you to the staff, nurses, and care aids at the Grande Prairie Care Centre for the amazing care and compassion they displayed for Dennis and the family.

A celebration of life will be held at the Shot Rock Bar and Grill, upstairs at the Grande Prairie Curling Centre (10127 99 Avenue in Grande Prairie, Alberta) beginning at 3pm, Saturday, July 29th, 2023.

Care entrusted to Bear Creek Funeral Home 780-830-7742 bearcreekfuneral.com

Services

29 Jul

Celebration of Life

03:00 PM

Grande Prairie Curling Centre 10127 99 Avenue Grande Prairie, AB Get Directions »
by Obituary Assistant

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Condolences

  • 07/14/2023

    My condolences, Carol-Ann, Randy, and the rest of the Rutberg family. I will always remember Dennis for his kind eyes and warm smile; he was such a pleasure to have on staff.

  • 07/13/2023

    We don't remember a time that you and Dennis were not our friends. I don't think that Dennis had a hateful bone in his body! He always greeted us with a smile and a hug. He was always "Super". Cherish the time you had with him Carol Anne. What a perfect soul mate to share your life with. With love always...........Donlea and Gerald Moisan Kendra also sends a hug!!

  • 07/09/2023

    We are so sorry to hear the news. His smile always made you feel he was happy to see you. Family and friends sharing memories are precious. Hugs to all of you.

  • 07/08/2023

    Carol Ann, Wayne, Randy & Gary my thoughts are with you. I will miss Dennis ' smile and interest in whomever he was talking to.

  • 07/07/2023

    So sorry Carol-Ann and family. Dennis will be missed. He was always so great to visit with. Laurel Reynolds

  • 07/07/2023

    My condolences to the whole Rutberg clan. He was an awesome father, grandpa, uncle husband. Cherish the memories. Nancy Olson

  • 07/06/2023

    Carol-Ann and family My sympathies and prayers are with all of you at this difficult time. Lorraine Martin

  • 07/06/2023

    My condolences to Rod, Judy and all the Rutberg families. RIP Dennis..... Riley Stilling Calgary, AB.

  • 07/06/2023

    I WOULD LIKE TO OFFER MY SINCERE CONDOLENCES TO THE RUTBERG FAMILY. I KNOW DENNIS FROM MANY YEARS AGO WHEN I LIVED IN GP. RICK FORGAN,PENTICTON BC

  • 07/06/2023

    So very sorry to hear of Dennis's passing. We have many fond memories of Dennis. His smile, laugh and kind heart are what we will remember most. May you Rest in Peace dear Dennis. Our deepest condolences to Carol Ann and family. Hugs. Paul & Debbie Paradis

  • 07/05/2023

    My condolences to all the Rutburg family. I worked with Dennis and became friends right away, always a smile and a story. RIP my friend.

  • 07/05/2023

    Sending our deepest condolences to the Rutberg family & all who loved Dennis. May the love of those around you help you through the days ahead. From : Shauna Murphy & the Murphy family

  • 07/05/2023

    Sending our love and heartfelt sympathies to Carol-Ann and the boys.

  • 07/05/2023

    I'm so sorry you're gone cousin but we'll meet again on the other side. You're cousin Randy Ames

  • 07/05/2023

    Carolann this is sad. Dennis was a great guy. Please tell Judy I'm so sorry she lost yet another brother. My deepest condolences to everyone who knew Dennis. RIP.

  • 07/05/2023

    My condolences to the entire family, Dennis was an amazing man and will never be forgotten. Love to you all.

  • 07/05/2023

    To The Rutberg family I am so sorry for your ,we all loved him deeply ,RIP Dennis.Audrey & Bruce Rose

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