Robert John Ruland

my deepest condolences to Robert specially to his brother Randy.

I send my condolences to you all. Peace and memories are your savior in grief. Take good care. Brigid OKeefe

I am deeply saddened with the news of my friend passing and upon hearing it my mind immediately began replaying memories...our last meeting, my future intentions that won't happen, and our RICH history of mischievous youth years. I met Robert & Randy when they moved into the house next door and were the same ages as my brother Dave & me. Robby & I were the 'youngers' so we quickly became good friends in the late 60's/early 70's. Bicycles, fishing poles, BB guns, and bows & arrows rooted our bond, especially archery! It was a pretty well-known secret that we roamed our Madison neighborhood far & wide together in the early mornings in search of targets. Robert became the BEST shot out of all of us and we would always hope to get the chance for a shot before Robert got his opportunity! He definitely had the most 'trophies' on display in our hunting clubhouse (aka Phil Smith's old chicken coop). When I last saw Robby in Oct. 2019 (I still say Wobby in my head), I reminded him of how he shared his bow & arrow with me before I had my own and because Robby was a Lefty I learned to shoot left handed and still do to this day. We also had a chance to reminisce about many other good & bad moments & incidents from our youth..., And We Laughed & Laughed together. It was so good to see him! As happens in most friendships time and life moved us in different directions and we had lost direct contact, but I have always felt a kindred spirit relationship with Robby in spite of all the changes. This was reaffirmed to me in our last talk, and I will regret not having had the chance to speak with Robby again and share more with him on this side of eternity. I do know, like each of us, Robert is a wonderful, loving soul that was placed in a decaying vessel for a time here on earth. He is free from that decay and pain now, and I know I will see my friend again! My condolences to Ron, Virginia, & Randy, and all Robert's family & friends. He will be missed! I have included a couple pictures from me & Robby's last meeting, and a couple from Oct 2007.

I was so sad to hear of Robert’s passing. As probably his favorite babysitter (right Randy?) I still see him as a cute little guy who along with his brother loved mischief and surprising me - jumping out of second story windows when sent to his room for a time-out. Robert, you are gone way too soon - Peace be yours!

So sorry to hear that he passed away Robby was my first roommate and a friend from my childhood I will miss him