John E. Ruzicka

It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of John Edward Ruzicka. John passed away peacefully on September 9, 2025, at Community Memorial Health in Burwell, leaving a void that cannot be filled. He is survived by his cherished daughters, Carrie Arp, Lori Hansen, and Rachel Sazama, and his beloved son, Jeffry Ruzicka.

A private family graveside service will be held at Elmwood Cemetery in St. Paul, officiated by Pastor Nicole Schwartz-Eck.

Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation.

Peters Funeral Home of St. Paul is assisting the family.

John was born on February 22, 1935, in Sargent, NE, to Edward and Alice (Mann) Ruzicka. He graduated high school in Sargent in 1952. He loved to share his stories of high school football glory and hot rod antics. His devotion to his country led him to enlist in the Army on April 8, 1958. After serving honorably in the Armored Division, stationed in Germany, he was discharged on April 8, 1960. Shortly after, John began farming, a profession that he passionately upheld throughout his life.

In 1961, he married the love of his life, Sharon Ruzicka. They built a home west of Midway Corner in Howard County, living there for more than 40 years. His family brought him immense joy and pride, and they were his greatest accomplishment. John served on the St. Paul School Board for a number of years, as well as the Farmers Union Coop Board. After retiring from farming, John served as a rural mail carrier for the United States Post Office.

Known for being loving, devoted, kind, hard-working, patient, and Christian, John lived his life with honesty and kindness. He strongly believed in the value of hard work and continuously instilled these values in those around him. His zest for life, combined with his strong Christian faith, made him a pillar of strength for his family.

John’s legacy is his family, who will carry forward his teachings and fond memories. He will forever be remembered for his kindness, love, and dedication. His spirit will live on, enriching the lives of those who were fortunate to have known him. His memory will forever be inscribed in our hearts.

He is survived by his children, Carrie and Ron Arp of Brush Prairie, WA, Lori and Vance Hansen of St. Paul, Jeffry and Chas Ruzicka of St. Paul, and Rachel and Mark Sazama of St. Paul; grandchildren, Allen and Carrie Woody, Benjamin and Amy Arp, Cameron and Lacey Woody, Joshua Arp, Colin Winkler, Coy Ruzicka, Addie Ruzicka, Lillian Sazama, and Elliot Sazama; great-grandchildren, Caleb Arp, Finn Woody, and Jaiden and Lukas Lurz; and sisters, Julie and Russ Reno of Lincoln, NE, and JoAnn and Jo Geisenhagen of Clinton, MO.

John is preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Alice Ruzicka, along with his wife, Sharon.