Obituary in Peace River Block News
Raimund Ruscheinski 1936 - 1998
On October 31, 1998 at the age of 62, Raimund (Ray) Ruscheinski passed away at Vancouver General Hospital, with his family by his side. Ray was born on August 10, 1936 in Caramurat (karamurat) Romania, to Peter and Monica Ruscheinski. He was the eldest of 5 children.
During his childhood years, the family faced many hardships due to the war. Several times they were forced to move, leaving house, livestock and personal belongings behind. In 1955, the family immigrated to Vancouver where Ray worked as a carpenter. In 1960, he married one true love, Elizabeth. Their first two children, Lory and Dave, were born in Vancouver. In 1966, the young family moved to the Peace River Country and bought land near Dawson Creek. It was then that they were blessed with their third child, Dan.
These years were filled with hard work and adventure as they were faced with land to clear, a home to build, cold temperatures, snow and Peace River gumbo. But Ray loved it here calling it "Gods Country".
He loved nature and wide open spaces and was an avid conservationist and environmentalist long before the term became popular. Over the years he raised and tended many different kinds of birds and animals on his farm, and had an amazing knowledge of nature. We could ask him anything. He was our "walking encyclopedia".
Ray was a part of most of the industrial infrastructure built in north-easter B.C. He helped build both Hydro-electric dam sites, mills and hotels in McKenzie, Fort St. John, Taylor, the large grain terminal on the Spirit River highway, Peace River Haven, as well helped in the development of the mine sites at Tumbler Ridge.
A severe automobile accident in 1983 left him with injuries that did not allow him to continue the rigors of construction work. He turned instead to taxidermy, fly tying and smithing, woodworking and many other hobbies that were enjoyed and displayed by family and friends alike. He was a true disciplined craftsman who's meticulous pride and keen eye for detail was evident in every project he undertook.
His hearty handshake, big bear hug and wonderful smile will always be remembered. He was a dedicated and loving husband (Teddy Bear), Dad, Opa, Uncle and friend.
Ray leaves to cherish his memory: his wife of 38 years, Liz. Children, Lory (Bruce) Derfler, Dave (Jackie) Ruscheinski, Dan (Bonnie) Ruscheinski. Grandchildren: Kristen and Pearce Derfler, Devon and Danielle Ruscheinski, Braeden and Quinn Ruscheinski. Brothers: Harry (Lina) Ruscheinski, Mel (Mary) Ruscheinski, John (Sandi) Ruscheinski and many relatives and friends.
Ray was predeceased by his parents, Peter and Monica Ruscheinski, sister Klara and nephew Bob.
Our family gatherings will not be the same. We will always love you and keep you in our hearts.
A Funeral Mass for Ray was held on Thursday, November 5 at 2 p.m. from Notre Dame Catholic Church. Funeral services were under the care of Reynars Funeral Home and Crematorium.
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