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NIAGARA, Wis. -- Ruben "Peter" DeClark went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, Sept. 7, 2026, following a courageous and fearless battle with cancer.
Although his passing leaves us brokenhearted, we find comfort knowing he felt he lived a good and meaningful life. We will carry on his legacy until our "chores" are done and we meet again.
Peter was born Nov. 30, 1949, the son of the late Ruben and Ruth (Struebing) DeClark.
On July 19, 1970, Peter married the love of his life, Marcia. They shared over 56 years of marriage, building a life centered around faith, family, and hard work.
Following his military service, Peter began his career at Doucette's Garage. He later began working at the Kremlin Mine, earned his blaster's license, and retired after more than 33 years of dedicated service.
Never one to sit idle, he farmed for much of his life and spent countless late nights repairing cars. He was still working in the fields until the day he had to return to the doctor. His hard work was one of the greatest ways he showed his love for his family.
With a generous heart Peter volunteered with the local churches, picking berries or with 4-H groups making hundreds of pasties or pies. He was a member of the Blood of the Lamb Ministry, where he volunteered with the food pantry.
Peter is survived by his loving wife; children Ann Marie DeClark, Lynn (Jason) Dunkes and David (Christine) DeClark; sister Beth Spade; brother-in-law Norbert Zuern; and many nieces and nephews.
Papa Pete was a hero to grandchildren Sydney, Jorden, Wyatt, Owen, Peyton, Cooper, Jacob, Jill, Brittany, Katie, Lennon, Haven and Bowynn. One of his greatest joys was teaching his grandchildren the love for fishing, hunting, farming and driving the tractor. "See ya later, I love you," "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."
-- 2 Timothy 4:7.
He is preceded in death by sisters Doris (Ivan) Lusardi, Carol (James) Bjorkman, Gail Miller, and Patricia Zuern; brothers Ernie (Wendy) DeClark and Robert Spade.
Family will greet friends Thursday, Sept. 17, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Blood of the Lamb Ministry in Pembine, Wis.
A memorial service will be held Thursday at 11 a.m. at the ministry, with Minister Melissa Drinka officiating.
Interment will follow at the Norway Township Cemetery.
Condolences to the family of Peter may be expressed online at www.ortmanfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements were made with the Ortman Funeral Home in Norway.