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Gerald Larry Rutberg
May 4, 1947 - June 24, 2023
Obituary
Gerald Larry Rutberg of Osoyoos, BC. May 4, 1947 ~ June 24, 2023 at the age of 76.
Gerald is survived by Jannefer Rutberg, his loving wife of 43 years; Daughter Laura (Dirk) Brubacher and their 3 adult children of Calgary, AB; Sister Marilyn Sherstabetoff of Calgary, AB; Brother Calvin (Iona) Rutberg of Coaldale, AB; Brothers-in-law Steve (Daylene) Shaw of Black Diamond, AB; Lew (Beth) Shaw of High River, AB; Wes (Liz) Shaw of High River, AB; Allan (Monica) Shaw of Brant, AB; Milton (Deb) Shaw of Cayley, AB; Sister-in-law Beverly (Wayne) Thiessen of Brant, AB; and 24 Nieces and Nephews… and counting.
Gerald was predeceased by his parents Hank (Myrtle) Rutberg; Father/Mother-in-law Ken (Merele) Shaw; Sister Eileen (Jock) Nelson;Brother Jarle Ruthberg (Fauske, Norway); Brother-in-law Harry Sherstabetoff; Nephew Victor Sherstabetoff.
Gerald was born, raised and educated in Vulcan, Alberta and worked for Alberta Wheat Pool right out of high school for 36 years. He started as a grain buyer in Vulcan from 1966 – 1988, then promoted into Public Relations in Grand Prairie from 1988 – 1995 and Edmonton/St. Albert from 1995 until he retired in 2002. After retiring from Alberta Wheat Pool, he moved to Calgary where he spent four years creating a program facilitating Seniors visiting the Calgary Zoo, and he enjoyed 6 years driving a retirement bus for a senior’s residence. In 2009, Gerald accepted a position to manage a new retirement residence in Osoyoos, BC. until May of 2012, when he officially retired.
Like everything Gerald did, he embraced his retirement full steam ahead. At the top of his list he had relaxing, golfing, barbecuing and hosting many unbelievable meals on his “Big Green Egg” with Jan. His amazing sense of humour and his infectious laughter put all who met him at ease and his mischievous smile will be missed by everyone.
Gerald acquired polio in 1953 but refused to let it slow him down. During his retirement years, Gerald became involved with the March of Dimes Canada to learn about and advocate for those dealing with post polio syndrome and its symptoms. He took a special interest in learning how to make mobility aids, like his red scooter, more accessible and helping those with post polio syndrome make the most of their own lives, despite their disabilities.
The family would like to send their heartfelt appreciation to the attending EMS crew from Osoyoos, the ER and ICU staff at the Penticton Hospital, and the Moog & Friends Hospice House staff in Penticton.
Gerald will be laid to rest in a private family ceremony in Vulcan, AB. A public celebration of life to follow.
Donations can be made in his name to the March of Dimes Canada:
https://marchofdimes.akaraisin.com/ui/MODCDonationEN/donations/start
You may forward condolences through www.kettlevalleymemorial.com.
Condolences
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From: Kettle Valley Memorial Services
The Kettle Valley Memorial staff send our condolences to family and friends.
From: March of Dimes Canada
Relation: He was a part of our polio Canada program Virtual Polio support group
It is with deep sadness that we here at March of Dimes Canada learn of the passing of Gerald Rutberg. Gerald was an active member of polio Canada, our national virtual polio support group that we consider a large family. His smile was contagious, his attitude was always amazing, his accomplishments in life were plenty and he shared regularly how much his family meant to him. We will surely miss Gerald at our weekly meetings, hearing about what was being cooked on the BBQ that evening and we have his family in our mind during this difficult time. Our deepest sympathies. With Warm Regards, March of Dimes Canada
From: Larry E Anderson
Relation: PPASS Zoom meetings
Condolences to the family. Gerald was a positive note on our PPASS Zoom meetings.
From: Barbara Day
Relation: from our Canada Post Polio weekly ZOOMS
I was deeply saddened by Gerald’s recent passing. We all looked forward each week to hearing Gerald’s wonderful stories about his beloved family and neighbourhood get-togethers and about his delicious BBQs. He always made us want to be there too. Gerald’s lovely personality and charisma endured him to all of us. I am grateful to have known Gerald through our virtual Post Polio Zoom presentations.
Service Schedule
Private service arrangements have been made.
Memorial Gifts
Donations can be made in Gerald’s name to the March of Dimes Canada:
https://marchofdimes.akaraisin.com/ui/MODCDonationEN/donations/start
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