Dennis Keith Ruhaak

Dennis Ruhaak Rock Springs - Dennis Ruhaak, 68, of Rock Springs died February 21, 2016 at his home after a sudden illness. He was born in Peoria, Ill to Donald J. Ruhaak and Virginia Simpson Ruhaak. His younger years were spent in Illinois and Colorado. He moved to Rawlins, Wy in 1955 where he attended elementary and high school. In 1963, he moved to Rock Springs and graduated from Rock Springs High School in 1965. He graduated from Western Wyoming College in 1967 and attended the University of Wyoming. He served in Vietnam with the U. S. Army’s 9th and 101st Airborne Infantry Divisions in 1969-70. During the 70’s he worked in the construction industry in the Operating Engineers and Plumbers and Pipefitters unions. He married Jean Pivik in 1984 and they later divorced. He was hired in 1986 by the Chevron fertilizer Plant and worked as an operator for 26 years and retired from the same plant owned by Simplot. He owned Green River Storage with his best friend, Howard Logan, for 25 years. He enjoyed rafting, water & snow skiing, spending time with his stepchildren and their children, building and remodeling houses, helping friends, & traveling. He also learned to scuba dive and got certified in his 60’s. He had the opportunity to dive in Belize. His dog, Dutchess, was a great love of his for 11 years until she died in 2013. He is survived by his brother, Tom , of Loveland, Colo. stepson, Eddie Baker and wife Debbie of Rock Springs, stepdaughter, Brandi Portereiko and husband Mike and children Ann and Nick of Thousand Oaks, Ca. He was fortunate to have the friendship of Howard & Susan Logan, Robert Volcic, Dave & Judy Polhamus, Charles & Valda Renz, Evelyn Merrell, Robert & Penny Boysen, & Leonard Merrell. He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald & Virginia Ruhaak. Cremation will take place at Fox Crematory, Rock Springs. A memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, February 26, 2016 at Fox Funeral Home, 2800 Commercial Way, Rock Springs where friends may call one hour prior to the services. Millitary honors will be provided for by the American Legion Archie Hay Post 24. Condolences for family can be left by going to www.foxfh.com.