July 29, 1935 - November 5, 2024
Ruben Sawatzky passed away peacefully into the presence of his Heavenly Father on November 5, 2024.
He was born on July 29, 1935 in Aberdeen, Saskatchewan.
At the age of 6 Ruben moved with his family to Yarrow and then to Greendale BC., he was the youngest of nine siblings.
He married Lorraine (Hall) in 1955 and they had three children.
Ruben was a well-respected automotive mechanic and he worked at Cherry Ford for 43 years.
After losing his wife Lorraine in 1992 Ruben retired.
Then in 1996 he moved to Kamloops and lived with his partner and friend Doreen Groves for 23 years.
In 2019 his health started to decline and he moved back to Chilliwack where he spent his last 5 years at Valleyhaven. Ruben was an avid dart player who played in the Chilliwack Dart League. He was also a member of the Canadian Order of Foresters and he helped at running their weekly bingo for many years.
Ruben loved spending time with his family especially his grandchildren.
Ruben is predeceased by his parents Frank and Katherina Sawatzky, his wife Lorraine (Hall), his siblings Henry, Tena, Frank, Edna, Alan, Alvina and Albert.
Ruben is survived by his 3 children, Debra (Jim) Wilson, Heather (Ken) Riediger and Mark Sawatsky.
He also leaves behind his 7 grandchildren, Jason (Jennifer) Riediger, Craig (Alexa) Riediger, Colby (Kelleigh) Donick, Taylor (Lauren) Wilson, the twins Cody and Dillon Pond and Morgan Sawatsky, 7 great-grandchildren, Grayson, Julian, Finnegan, Ethan and Lucas Riediger and Ella and Jack Wilson, and his sister Anne Epp.
Our many thanks go out to the staff at Valleyhaven and to Dr. Scott Markey. We couldn't have asked for better care for our father. Also, a special thanks to Pauline Lindhout for her help and care these past few months.
A graveside service will be held at Chilliwack Cemeteries at a later date.
If friends so desire donations can be made to the Canadian Alzheimer's Society or the Canadian Cancer Society.