Obituary for Clarence J. "CJ" Ruf

Age 92, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2020 in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota.

He was preceded in death by Alberta, his wife of 66 years.

CJ’s gift in life was his desire to help everyone he met. He was known for his generosity, cheerfulness, and perpetual smile. Whether in Minnesota or Florida, CJ’s neighbors could count on his help without hesitation. From being a veteran (stationed in Alaska and Ohio) to teaching tool and die making to high school students at Anoka Vo-Tech, CJ loved people.

An avid storyteller, he made those around him feel like they knew him forever. He loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and spending time at the cabin with his grandchildren. CJ was a loving husband to Alberta until her death last fall, and cared deeply about his family.

Practicing his Catholic faith was important to CJ. When he could no longer attend church, he relied on EWTN for attending Mass and praying the rosary.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Monday, August 24, 2020 at 11 am at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, 7025 Halifax Avenue North, Brooklyn Center, MN. For those who cannot attend, please pray for CJ and his family at this time.

A special thanks to all who lovingly cared for CJ at Maranatha’s Long Term Care Center and Optage Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to EWTN Catholic Television Network or Maranatha Care Center in Brooklyn Center.