John “Jack” Von Ruden, 86, of Cashton, Wis., passed away peacefully Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026, at Rolling Hills Nursing Home in Sparta, Wis.
Jack was born on June 27, 1939, to Raymond and Lila (Calhoun) Von Ruden in their home on Clinton Ridge, Wis. He met the love of his life, Sandy Clark, at Danceland near Ontario, Wis., where one glance across the dance floor led to a lifetime together. They were married Nov. 4, 1961, at St. John’s Catholic Church in Wilton, Wis. Jack was deeply devoted to Sandy; their love was beautiful, marked by constant care, devotion, and a lifetime of shared affection.
He worked for many years in the art department at Northern Engraving in Sparta and, after retiring, became a familiar and friendly face at Hansen’s IGA in Cashton, where his warm smile brightened everyone’s day.
Jack was a hard worker through and through; he was always willing to lend a hand, never hesitating to drop what he was doing to help a neighbor, friend, or family member. Thoughtful, gentle, and endlessly caring, Jack had a way of making others feel loved.
Above all, Jack treasured his family. He shared an especially close bond with his daughter, Jeanne; they were not only family, but best friends. He was a loving father to his two sons, Kirt and Scott, spending time with them watching football or a good old western. He was a very proud grandfather to Amanda, Ashley, Michelle, Mitchel and Matthew. He loved playing with them and having sleepovers with Grandma & Grandpa. He delighted in time spent with his children and grandchildren and always looking forward to family gatherings. Jack was the gentlest and kindest man, and his family meant everything to him. He loved each one with his whole heart.
Jack is survived by his children, Kirt (Julie), Scott, and Jeanne (Jon) Pauley; his grandchildren, Amanda, Ashley (Tim) Ziedler, Michelle (Erick) Blasing, Mitchel, and Matthew; his great-grandchildren, Kyra, Emmeline, Abram, Caleb and Braelynn; his siblings, Gene (Jackie), Al (Rox), Judy, Tom (Sally), and Dan (Connie); and his sisters and brothers-in-law, Nancy Von Ruden, Claude Nevin, Carolyn Clark, Donna and Gary Clark and Linda King; along with many loving nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends.
Jack was preceded in death by his adoring wife, Sandy, in April 2024; his parents, Raymond and Lila Von Ruden; his twin brother, Jerry Von Ruden; his sister, Linda Nevin; two infant siblings, Myron and Mary; a great-grandson, Levi Ziedler; his brothers- and sister-in-law, Ronald Clark, Dennis Clark, and Earl and Nancy Brey; and his in-laws, Mayvis and LaVerne Clark.
A Mass of Christian Burial was Saturday, Jan. 24, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Cashton, Wis. Father Matthew Bowe officiated. Family and friends were invited for visitation Saturday at the church. A private family burial will take place at a later date in the Pine Hollow Cemetery, rural Cashton, Wis.
Family has asked that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jack’s name to the Cashton First Responders.
The Torkelson Funeral Home of Cashton, Wis., is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.
