Gerald W. Ruetten (Jerry), 79, passed away on September 22, 2020 at Froedtert Memorial Hospital-West Bend. Jerry was born in Sparta, WI in 1940. His parents, Frederick H. Ruetten and Leona (VonRuden) Ruetten moved the family to Waukesha, WI in 1952. Jerry graduated from Waukesha South High School in 1959. He attended one year of college at UW-Madison and one year at Marquette University. He then completed an IBEW apprenticeship program in the Milwaukee area. Jerry has been living in West Bend for the past 25 years. In the past, Jerry enjoyed fishing in Canada, golfing, and following the Packers. He has always been an avid reader and the library was a favorite spot. Spending time with Tom was another favorite past time. Jerry is survived by five siblings: Alan (Sandra deceased) Ruetten, Robert (Mary Jo deceased; Gayle) Ruetten, Catherine (Dave) Resheske, Joan (Dennis) Kasian, and Thomas (Chris) Ruetten); as well as numerous family and friends. A Private Burial will be held. Future plans for a celebration of Jerry's life are yet to be determined.