Obituaries

Gary L. “Ruppert” Ruppert, age 80, of Verona, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2024, at his home. He was born on April 15, 1944, in Dodgeville, Wisconsin.

Ruppert graduated from East High School in Madison, Wisconsin in 1962. Shortly after, he served his country from 1963 to 1966 in the U.S. Army as a member of the 42nd Engineers Company, Combat Support Battalion, as part of the Berlin Brigade stationed in Berlin, Germany. On June 14, 1969, he married the love of his life, Diane Miller. In 1970, he began a career as a Steamfitter, ultimately dedicating himself to Steamfitters Local 394. His commitment led him to serve on the Executive Board and Apprenticeship Committees and, finally, as President from 1980 to 1989. Ruppert took great pride in being a Fitter, receiving his 50-year pin in 2020, and built many lifetime friendships with his union brothers and sisters.

Beyond his work, Ruppert found his greatest joy in his family and his passion for motorcycles. A true motorcycle enthusiast, he cherished his Sunday morning rides and the annual riding trips he shared with his brother and best friend, Dennis, his son, Tim, his grandson, Jonathan, and numerous friends. His other cherished tradition was an annual fishing trip, which began in Canada with buddies ultimately ended up in Chetek, Wisconsin with family. These trips, full of laughter, story-telling and shared memories, were precious to him.

Among his family bonds, Ruppert’s relationship with his great-grandson, Wylie, was especially close. He was honored to care for Wylie from birth until school age, and the name Wylie gave him, “Pa-a,” was one he treasured. Their bond was one of the many highlights of his life.

Ruppert was preceded in death by his parents, Sylvester and Virginia (Bang) Ruppert, his stepfather, Robert Brey, and his brother, Dennis Ruppert. He is survived by his beloved wife, Diane; his son, Timothy Marking (Jane); and his daughter, Katrina (HB) Ruppert (Mandy Held). He leaves behind his grandchildren: Jonathan (Katie) Marking, Jeremy Marking, Lacey Marking, and Amanda Perttunen, as well as his great-grandchildren, Wylie and Jameson Perttunen and Wade and Vince Marking. Brother John (Kerry) Ruppert, sister Pamela Ruppert Alter, many extended family members and dear friends will also carry on his memory, holding close the moments they shared.

Ruppert was known as one of the kindest, most selfless people anyone could meet, always the first to offer a helping hand or share a laugh. His spirit will be missed deeply, and his legacy of kindness and generosity will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Francis Church in Belleville, Wisconsin, on November 23, 2024. Visitation will begin at 9:30 AM, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM, with a luncheon to follow. A private family burial will take place at a later date. As a special tribute to Father Mick Moon for coming out of retirement, donations can be made to his preferred charity, 5 Door Recovery in Madison, in lieu of flowers.

Ruppert will be dearly missed, but his warmth, humor, and the memories he leaves behind will forever resonate in the lives of all who were lucky to know him.

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services

Verona Chapel

220 Enterprise Drive

608-845-6625