Obituary for August Ruzicka

August “Gus” R. Ruzicka, 93, of Westerville passed away on Thursday, March 7, 2024. He grew-up in German Village. Gus was a 1949 graduate of South High School where he excelled in academics and was the class president. He then went on to the Columbus College of Art & Design. Over the years he dabbled in water colors, but was known for his cartoons. Many of his paintings and cartoons are with former co-workers, family and friends.

 

 

 

Gus joined The Dispatch where he had a career spanning 47 years, retiring in 1996. During that time, he served 6 years in the Naval Reserves. He never was called for active duty because he already was the father of 4 children. Also, Gus had a second business venture, R & R Catering. This career spanned 17 years, feeding groups of a thousand to parties of eight. Outside of catering, he won several chili cookoffs and was known in the shrine community for his spaghetti and meatballs.

 

 

 

Gus served 12 years as the local ITU president. After it merged with the CWA, he became a chief steward, continuing in that position for several years after his retirement. Throughout his life, he was always in a leadership position. This is especially evident in his shrine life. For over 50 years, Gus supported caring for children needing the shrine hospitals. He was president of the Gahanna Shrine Club. And, was director of several units/organizations within Aladdin Shrine.

 

 

 

In his spare time, Gus enjoyed bowling and fishing. He was always proud of his achievements whether in a bowling alley or on a lake. He spent many years at Sand Lake in Canada enjoying the thrill of catching the “big one.”  Plus, he enjoyed traveling, whether it be by car, air or sea. He was quick to tell you he took over 30 cruises  with his wife. And, would share those adventures with anyone who would listen.

 

 

 

He leaves his wife, Linda, of 41 years. When they married, their blended family grew to 11 children. Four proceeded Gus in death: Kenneth, Hilary, Sheryl and Michael. He will be missed by Susan Ruzicka, Teresa Ruzicka, Penelope (Frank) Love, Theodore Love, Rebecca Love, Eric (Kristin) Taylor and Kathryn (Michael) McKenney. Also, Gus was proud of his 6 grandchildren and 2 great-granddaughters. He said he believed he lived in the best of times, hoping his descendants would  have healthy and happy futures.  

 

 

 

Before slipping into unconsciousness, Gus said he was ready to go. With drugs he was able to die peacefully. He credited his longevity to exercise and beer. So raise a Budweiser and toast the fulfilling life Gus enjoyed. 

 

 

Special thanks to everyone at St. Ann’s Hospital who cared for him over his last 2 weeks of life. It wasn’t easy, but they were there throughout the dying process.