Jim Ruble
Jim Ruble, 87, of Sullivan, MO, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 6, 2023 at Meramec Nursing Center in Sullivan.
James Adrian Ruble, affectionately known as Jim, was born on September 8, 1935, in Vulcan, Missouri. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, a dedicated community servant, and a man of strong faith.
Jim was a proud graduate of Annapolis High School. His dedication to service led him to join the United States Air Force in 1953, where he served as an Airman First Class until 1957. Stationed in San Antonio, Texas, and Reykjavik, Iceland, Jim served his country with distinction. Following his honorable discharge, he joined the Meramec Mining Company, where he worked from 1958 to 1970. His commitment to worker safety eventually led him to a career with the US Department of Labor, Mine Safety and Health Administration, where he worked as a Federal Mine Inspector from 1970 until his retirement in 1996.
Jim's commitment to his community was evident in his involvement with various organizations. He served as a member of the Sullivan Volunteer Fire Department for 21 years and helped form an Auxiliary Police Force, where he was the first Captain. He was also a member of the Jaycees, the Masonic Lodge, and the Sons of the American Revolution. He served on the Board of Directors for the Harney Mansion, the Sullivan Planning and Zoning Commission, and as the President of Sullivan Homes, Inc. for 28 years.
A man of deep faith, Jim was a member of the First Baptist Church since 1959. His faith guided him throughout his life and was a source of strength and inspiration for his family and those who knew him.
Jim had a passion for restoring cars, particularly his 1941 Chevy, which won several awards. He had a keen interest in Civil War history and family genealogy, Jim carried a deep appreciation and love for his birthplace, Vulcan, Missouri, and his family. He was dedicated to caring for his mother after his father's passing, earning him the affectionate nickname "my boy" from his mother.
Jim is survived by his devoted wife of 67 years, Irene Dillingham of Sullivan, Missouri; three children: Alan Ruble and wife Donna of Hannibal, Missouri, Beverly Gable and husband Bill of Ajijic, Mexico and Sandy Stoltzfus of Glenwood Springs, Colorado; nine grandchildren: Josh Thomas, Zack Thomas and wife Christy, Racheal Chicoine and husband Jathan, Rusty Ruble, Bryan Ruble and wife Jennifer, Ashley Mays and fiancé Austin Harris, Taylor Mays, Emma Stoltzfus, and Skyler Barnes and husband Ricky; eight great-grandchildren: Elliott, Liam, Azlon, Kael, Adalyn, Mirai, Oliver and William; a sister, Helen Crombie of Sullivan, MO; other relatives and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James Avery and Myrtle.
A Remembrance Memorial service will be 11:00 AM, Saturday, July 15, 2023 at the First Baptist Church of Sullivan with Pastor Chester Lahmann officiating.
Visitation will be 9 – 11:00 AM, Saturday, July 15, 2023 at the First Baptist Church of Sullivan, prior to the memorial service.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Des Arc Museum.
C/O Peoples Community Bank, 200 E. 2nd Street, Annapolis, MO 63620.
Friends may send their online condolences to Jim’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com
All arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan.