Donald Alfred Ruehlen

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Donald Alfred Ruehlen at the age of 95. He died peacefully at Oliver Lodge, in Saskatoon on August 6, 2025.

Don was born on May 14, 1930 in Melville, Saskatchewan to Alfred and Irene Ruehlen.

Don met the love of his life Jean (nee Besse) in 1946 and eventually they married in 1952 in Biggar, Saskatchewan. After a few years residing in Kindersley and Biggar, they moved with their young family to Saskatoon in 1960 where they planted roots and grew a meaningful and fruitful life together.

Don was a welder by trade and worked as a carman with the Canadian National Railway (CN) for 37 years. He made many lifelong friends and connections during his time on the railroad.

Don found joy in travelling with his beloved wife Jean, discovering the landscapes of Saskatchewan and Canada in their motorhome. After retirement, Don continued his journey with Jean by spending 18 beautiful winters in Mesa, Arizona together - a testament to a life well-lived and deeply shared.

Although Don enjoyed the simple pleasures in life like golf, shuffleboard, and reading the newspaper, his greatest fulfillment came from being a devoted father and grandfather. Whether it was a proud “let’s go buddy!” from the sidelines or the quiet comfort of simply being there, his love was unwavering. His family’s presence and accomplishments brought him immeasurable joy, filling his heart in ways nothing else ever could. He lived for those moments, and they live on in the hearts of those he cherished most.

Don is survived by his loving wife of 73 years Jean Ruehlen, daughter Donna (Stan), son Blair (Leila), brother Bill (Carolyn), brother Bob, granddaughters Christie (Jason) and Kerri, grandsons Clarke (Alanna), Blake (Lara), Kiel (Jamie), and numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Don was predeceased by his sister Lorraine and Bob Gilroy, brother-in-law Victor and Louella Besse, sister-in-law Doreen and Gabe Silvernagle, brother-in-law Gordon Besse, sister-in-law Nona and Harley Custer.

Thank you to the staff of Oliver Lodge, Preston Park and Villa Royale for their outstanding care, generosity and patience.

The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, August 12 at 1:00 pm at St. David’s Trinity United Church (3318 Merrit St., Saskatoon). For those unable to attend, a livestream link will be provided here prior to the service. Interment will be at a later date.

Martens Warman Funeral Home is honoured to be entrusted with the care of Mr. Ruehlen.