It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jean Ruehlen at the age of 93. She passed away peacefully with family by her side at Oliver Lodge, in Saskatoon on May 15, 2026.

Jean was born on November 8, 1932, in Biggar, Saskatchewan to Clarke and Agnes Besse.

Jean met her husband Don in 1946 and eventually they married in 1952 in Biggar, Saskatchewan. After a few years residing in Kindersley and Biggar, they moved with their family to Saskatoon in 1960 and put down roots.

Jean and Don made a wonderful team. Jean was the outgoing socialite, while Don was the quiet, steady partner, always ready to support her in any way he could. Jean was often the one directing plans, meticulously organizing their events and filling up the calendar. Don was right there beside her, ready to head to the grocery store or venture out on the road to the many events they had lined up. One thing you could count on without a doubt was that they would show up for as many events as they could fit into their schedule, with Don driving and Jean riding shotgun.

Jean was an extremely loving, gentle, and warm person. She was always first in line to give a hug and just as eager to receive one in return. She had the gift of the gab and was an incredibly social person. Whether chatting with a lifelong friend or someone she had just met, Jean took the time to really get to know you and made you feel important in her presence.

Jean had a remarkable sense of humour and a laugh that lit up a room, bringing joy to everyone around her. Jean (or G.G., as she was lovingly known by her grandchildren) was notorious for her catchphrases and expressions, affectionately called “GG-isms.” When playing cards, you could hear her saying she “had a hand that was more like a foot,” or that she had a “dog from every town.” These are just a couple of examples of her unique wit and charm, which was something to look forward to when you were around her.

Jean was a woman of many talents. She had an incredible voice, played the piano, and could whistle like a songbird. She could knit a sweater, patch a pair of jeans, sew a quilt, craft, and tend to a garden with the best of them. But her most undeniable and most cherished gift was her love for her family. Nothing brought her more happiness than time spent with those she loved, and she made each person feel seen, valued, and cared for.

After a life well lived, and through a difficult final couple of years, we can now say to Jean, using one of her own familiar phrases, that it is time to “rest your hands and face.”

Jean is survived by her daughter Donna (Stan) Seymour; son, Blair (Leila) Ruehlen; granddaughters, Christie (Jason) and Kerri; grandsons, Clarke (Alanna), Blake (Lara), and Kiel (Jamie); numerous great-grandchildren; great-great-grandchildren; cousins, nieces and nephews; brother-in-law, Bill (Carolyn) Ruehlen; brother-in-law, Bob Ruehlen; and sister-in-law, Rita Besse.

Jean was predeceased by her husband of 73 years, Don Ruehlen; her brother, Victor (Louella) Besse; her sister, Doreen (Gabe) Silvernagle; her brother, Gord Besse; her sister, Nona (Harley) Custer; and her sister-in-law, Lorraine (Bob) Gilroy.

Thank you to the staff and residents of Oliver Lodge and Villa Royale for their outstanding care, generosity and friendship.

The celebration of Jean’s life will be held on Monday, May 25 at 11:00am at Mayfair United Church (902 33rd St. West). If you are unable to attend, please click the following link for livestream:https://www.youtube.com/live/YCCjK11OX0s

Interment will be held at a later date at Biggar Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest beside her husband, Don.

Donations in Jean’s name can be made to Oliver Lodge in Saskatoon.