NEW GLARUS – Walter Ruef, age 85 passed away on Sunday, August 8, 2021 at the New Glarus Home. He was born on August 11, 1935 in Oberried am Brienzersee, Switzerland the son of Wilhelm and Clara (Trachsel) Ruef. Walter immigrated to the United States with his family in 1951. He would then serve in the United States Army during the Korean War. While he was in Seoul, South Korea he earned his citizenship. Walter then continued his service in the United States Air Force until his discharge in 1961. After his military service he worked as a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service for 35 years, retiring in 1999. Walter enjoyed photography, trains, and family trips. The trips included adventures to South Dakota, Florida, Minnesota, the circle tour of Lake Michigan, and Honduras. He had also traveled back to his homeland Switzerland to visit extended family, and continued to stay connected to his Swiss roots. Walter participated in the Wilhelm Tell play for many years. He was a member of the Stuessy-Kuenzi American Legion Post #141 in New Glarus, and was an active member of the honors rifle detail.

Walter is survived by his sons Carlos (Krystal) and Michael (Tanya) Ruef, grandchildren Alexandro, Veyron, Avari, Elowen, and Hollis, and his son’s mother Sandy Ruef. He is further survived by his brother Fred (Carol) Ruef, sister Frieda Ruef, sister-in-law Carol Ruef, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Hugo and Willy Ruef.

A celebration of Walter’s life will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 11, 2021 at the Chalet Landhaus, 801 State Rd. 69, New Glarus, WI. Military honors will be accorded at the start of the celebration.

Private family burial will be at the Natural Path Sanctuary, Verona, WI.

The Zentner-Beal Funeral Home of New Glarus is assisting the family.

Online condolences may be given at www.bealfuneralhomes.com