Clatskanie

Nov. 12, 1934 — March 29, 2020

Vernon Leroy Ruch was born in Portland, Oregon, on Nov. 12, 1934, and grew up in Salem, Oregon, with his mother, Audrey, and grandparents, Homer and Pearl Ruch.

Vern married his wife, Patricia, on March 10, 1962, and they began their marriage of 58 years in Salem, Oregon.

Working for Burlington Northern Railroad for 38 years, Vern and Pat lived in Albany, Oregon, Knappa, Oregon, and settled in Clatskanie, Oregon, in 1982.

Vern enjoyed working on cars and tractors, playing pool like a pro and building anything he set his mind to, or anything his wife requested of him. He was a jack of all trades with knowledge he loved to share.

He spent his life helping family, neighbors, friends and strangers, while always keeping a watchful eye and protecting his wife and girls.

He was loved by all who knew him for his helpful hands, his strength, sense of humor and his kind heart.

Vern is loved and survived by his wife, Patricia; and his three girls, Jeanette (Rick Richmond), Lynda (Rob Creswell) and Christine; his four grandchildren, Ryann Richmond, Mitchell Creswell, Levi Creswell (Kenzie Garlock) and Joshua Ruch; and great-granddaughter Aurora DeOs.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Donna Bailey, and daughter, Deanna Wells.

A celebration of life will be held at Alston Pub at a later date.