John Leroy Ruhs

John Leroy Ruhs was born in Louisville, Ky. on September 25th, 1940, to Helen and Joseph Ruhs. He lived his entire life in Louisville, Ky., and died in his home at the age of 81 on July 14th, 2022.

John spent his early childhood in the Hazelwood area with his 5 siblings. His mother had to raise them on her own for a short time, until she met a wonderful man, Howard Lee, who would become the person they knew as their father, and they were able to raise their family together. John attended grade school at Our of Mother of Sorrows and St. Ann's, and graduated from Ahrens High School in 1958. He enjoyed playing basketball in pick up games and recreational leagues, and was considered a good athlete.

Early in life he worked at the Fawcett Deering Company, and was later employed at Louisville's Naval Ordnance as a machinist, before retiring in 1972 due to a work disability. In the early 1980's he purchased a couple of rental properties and enjoyed rehabilitating those properties, until a loss of vision prohibited him from actually doing the work.

John lived single for most of his life, but remained very close to his two children. He had many friends, most notably Carl Hundley, his brother- in- law, and Dale Miller, whom he spent a lot of time with in the 80's thru the 2000's, before they proceeded him in passing. Later in life, he also enjoyed spending time and traveling with his brother Al and his wife Janice (now deceased). Despite suffering from a non curable eye disease which caused him to eventually become completely blind, he was able to be self supportive in his daily life, as it was important to him to maintain his independence. He did not want assistance from anyone, as he did not want to be a burden to others.

He was an avid sports fan, U of K fan, and enjoyed listening to ball games on the TV and radio. He also enjoyed listening to talk radio, C-span, and KET television shows, always keeping friends and family updated on current events. Unfortunately, he was diagnosed with various cancers over the last ten years, which ultimately took his life.

In addition to being a devoted father, he loved his friends and family very much, always putting their needs and wants before his own. Affectionately known as Gramps, his granddaughters and great granddaughters were the joy of his life. Although he lived a simple life, he was very charitable to help those in need. Those who were fortunate to know him, were truly blessed to have him in their lives.

John is survived by his sister Barbara Thompson, and brothers Alvin Ruhs and J.D. Ruhs; two children, Kim Wiesenhofer, and Greg Ruhs (Lisa), two granddaughters Cazden Diaz (Milo) and Abigail Ruhs, and four great granddaughters, Lily, Lizeth, Laurie, and Leslie Diaz.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Wednesday, July 20, 2022 at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals, and Receptions, East Louisville Chapel (235 Juneau Drive).

A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Albert The Great Catholic Church (1395 Girard Dr, Louisville, KY 40222) on Wednesday, August 10, 2022 at 10:30 am.

Donations in memory of John Ruhs can be made to Little Sisters of the Poor, Visually Impaired Preschoolers, and Home of the Innocence.

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