Kristopher "Kris" Larry Ruzek

THE VIDEO TRIBUTE HONOURING KRIS IS AVAILABLE BELOW.

   It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kristopher Larry Ruzek of Crowsnest Pass, Alberta.  Kris, more affectionally known as “Rosie”, passed away on September 23, 2022 at the age of 45. 

   Born on May 30, 1977 in Blairmore, Alberta to proud parents, Larry and Debi Ruzek, Kris was raised with love and blessed with many talents and abilities.  A natural athlete, compassionate character and always looking for a way to make you laugh and smile, he was a charismatic and interesting young man who made many friends and endless fond memories with all who knew him.  He graduated from Crowsnest Consolidated High School in 1995 and pursued a post graduate diploma in Recreational Sports Services at Lethbridge College.  In 1999, he received his Bachelor of Business and Administration degree from the Athabasca University.  He put his skills to work by starting the family business Border Building Materials and later gained a position as General Manager at Home Hardware in Fernie, BC.  Kris was dedicated to our community as a third generation volunteer firefighter for the Bellevue Fire Department.  He was also involved in minor hockey for many years of his life and qualifyed for a position on the Foothills Bisons team in the South Central Bantam Division which earned him the best goalie award in 1992.  He enjoyed various activities such as baseball, fishing, hiking and golfing (he scored a “hole in one” at the age of 11).  He enjoyed a higher level of physical fitness and trained and competed in Cross-Fit regularly.  His vacations in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico were a favourite, but the quality time he spent with his family was his greatest joy.  Kris lived a life with many accomplishments and fond moments, but faced challenges along the way. He had an immense spiritual nature that led him to great introspective notions and philosophies.  He realized that adversity is overcome one day at a time; success is achieved on the backs of many failures; and that sometimes there just are not immediate answers to the hard questions we face. Kris had a natural ability to help others who were struggling and provided support with a listening ear.  Kris was a cherished son, wonderful brother, beloved uncle and an amazing friend.  He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered.

“Grief never ends…but it changes.

It’s a passage, not a place to stay.

Grief isn’t a sign of weakness nor a lack of faith…

It is the price of love”.

   Left to mourn his death and honour his life include his family: his devoted parents, Larry and Debra Ruzek of Hillcrest; his loving sister, Brandi (Craig) Yakubowski; his special nephews, Karson and Landen Yakubowski; and numerous extended family members and loyal friends.  He is predeceased by his Grandparents, Rudy & Iris Ruzek and Lou & Noreen Olinek; his childhood best friend, Kelly Rinaldi; and his loving dog, Manny.

   The service celebrating Kris’ life will be held on Saturday, October 1, 2022 at 3pm at the MDM Community Hall (2802-222 St.) in Bellevue with family friend, Rev. Renso Castellarin presiding.  Donations in memory may be directed to Darcy’s Nature Walk (Box 455, Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0).  Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca. 

Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with arrangements. (403) 562-8555.

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