James Joseph Ruehl, 83 years old, died on Friday, January 17th, 2014 at the Sterling House in Bowling
Green, Ohio. Jim was born June 30th, 1930 in Cumberland, Maryland to Carl and Nellie Ruehl. Jim was
third youngest of 8 children that included his sisters Helen and Valetta and his brothers Paul, Fred,
Pete, Vick and Gene.
While still in high school in Cumberland, Jim met his sweetheart, Ann (Alderman) Ruehl during a hayride
and the two were soon boyfriend and girlfriend. The couple married in June, 1950 and were married for 63
years. Jim was recruited by Woody Hayes to play football at The Ohio State University and the couple
started their life together on the Columbus, Ohio campus. In Jim’s first season as a Buckeye, they beat
the team up north and he and Woody earned their first pair of Gold Pants. Jim was called up during the
Korean War and served in the U.S. Marines where he was a Drill Instructor at
Parris Island, North Carolina. After he served his country, Jim returned to The Ohio State University
campus where he earned his undergraduate degree. After graduation, Doyt Perry asked Jim to join the
coaching staff of the Bowling Green State University Falcons football team. As a member of the BGSU
faculty, Jim taught health and physical education. Jim also earned his graduate degree from BGSU. He
later became Commissioner of the Central Collegiate Hockey Association (CCHA), Director of the BGSU Ice
Arena and President of the National Association of Ice Arena Directors. During his tenure with the
university, Jim was part of two national championship teams, the 1959 undefeated BGSU football team and
the 1984 BGSU hockey team. After his retirement from Bowling Green State University, Jim was the
Secretary Director of the Wood County Fairgrounds and a realtor with AA Green Realty.
Jim and Ann raised their 5 children Jim, Carol, Bob, Jeff and Julie in Bowling Green where he was active
in the community and a member of the Rotary International. Jim enjoyed spending time with his 13
grandchildren and great grandchildren. A man of deep faith, Jim shaped his Christianity through various
groups and activities as a member of the First United Methodist Church. Throughout his life he
maintained a straightforward, honest approach that won the trust and hearts of many who were forever
changed by his constant love and faith. His signature zest for life, contagious smile and an
entertaining sense of humor will never be forgotten. James Joseph Ruehl Sr. valued his friends, loved
his family and could often be heard saying, "Whose got it better than us?"
A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Wednesday, January 22, 2014 at 11:00am at First United
Methodist Church. Rev. Thomas Mellott will officiate. Interment is at Oak Grove Cemetery. Friends may
call on Tuesday from 4 to 8pm at the Dunn Funeral Home located in Bowling Green’s Historical District at
408 W. Wooster St.
The Ruehl family asks that donations to your favorite charity be made in his name in lieu of flowers.
To share an online condolence with the family please visit www.dunnfuneralhome.com
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