Gregory Alan Ruidl

“The rumors of my demise have been greatly exaggerated.”

(with apologies to Mark Twain)

Anyone who knew Gregg Ruidl for more than a minute, has heard this misquote and many other “Ruidl-isms” for which he was well known. Sadly, this time the rumors are true. He died on Tuesday, November 21, 2023.

Gregory A. Ruidl was born January 19, 1952, to Harold and Jean (Schwabe) Ruidl. A Milwaukee native, he was a graduate of Marquette University High School, Marquette University, Marquette Law School and Boston University Law School where he earned a Master’s in Tax Law.

He came to Racine in 1979 to work for the law firm of DeMark, Kolbe and Brodek and he grew from the new kid to the senior partner until his retirement in 2021. He served on many business Boards of Directors and Community Boards including the Racine Symphony, DRDC, an original member of Rotary’s Founder’s Club and the Racine Community Foundation and a member of the Somerset Club.

He loved being a lawyer and he loved his clients, many of whom became close friends. He relished discussing the law with partners, friends, children and anyone else who would engage in the conversation. His passion was such that he never thought he would fully retire. However, Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson’s Disease forced that, and simply ravaged him in less than three years.

He married Jan in 1980 and they were blessed with four children who grew up guided by his humor and Ruidl-isms such as, “repetition is the mother of all learning, and “your attitude determines your altitude.” The accomplishment of which he was most proud was seeing his children complete their college educations and collecting 4 BA’s, 3 Master’s and a Juris Doctor.

Gregg loved tennis. He played as often as he could. Fly fishing brought him great joy. Some of his happiest moments were spent in Montana and Wyoming, knee-deep in a stream, competing with Jeff for the largest catch.

Gregg was a great friend, a trusted advisor, a beloved husband, father and grandfather. He is loved and mourned by his wife Jan, son Jeff (Katie,) daughters Courtney (Tim) Krause and Lisa (Steve) Nosbisch. Also survived by five grandchildren: Jack, Charlie, Marion and George Ruidl and Audrey Nosbisch. He is lovingly remembered by his sister Patricia (Jerry Styberg,) sister-in -law Carol Gilbert, nieces, nephews, numerous cousins and many friends.

He was predeceased by his daughter Becca, parents, sister Kathe Beduhn, brothers Bill and Scotty, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

We are so grateful for all the love and support given to us by so many. His caregivers Janis, Helen and Nikki were very special to him. Thank you to Always Best Care and Accent Hospice who assisted us in fulfilling Gregg’s wish to stay at home. Gregg, thank you for modeling perseverance and determination. You never willingly capitulated to limitations; but were also realistic about the outcome. And when it was time to let go, you simply closed your eyes and waited for Becca to bring you to Heaven.

“The stars will go out before we forget you.”

Visitation will be held at Maresh-Meredith & Acklam Funeral Home on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, from 5-7 pm. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Sacred Heart Church, 2201 Northwestern Avenue, Racine, WI 53404, on Wednesday, November 29, 2023, Visitation before Mass from 10:30 – 11:30 with Mass at 11:30. Burial will be private.

The service will be livestreamed and may be viewed at https://youtube.com/live/T6WxC5dD-nI?feature=share

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to Marquette University High School or The Racine Community Foundation.