Prominent Jasper Restaurateur Passes Away

Jasper- A prominent figure in the business community has passed away at 87.

Lovella Ruckriegel, the widow of Bob Ruckriegel, passed away on November 22nd. Becher-Kluesner Funeral home shared the announcement.

Lovella and her husband opened Jerry’s restaurant in 1964. During the early years of the restaurant, Ruckriegel continued to work for Jasper Wood Products. She would do the books for Jerry’s restaurant.

Lovella and Bob would partner with their friend Dave Buehler to form a restaurant company. It was during this time in 1969 that Lovella would leave Jasper Wood Products. Their company would eventually grow to six states.

Their children Al and Sid Ruckriegel would start their own restaurant. The Ruckriegel’s would combine the companies in 2014 to form SERVUS, Inc.

Among Lovella’s various accomplishments that featured a distinguished Alumnus designation from Jasper High School was a Key to the City of Jasper.

Lovella will be laid to rest on Tuesday, November 29th at 10am. Her full obituary can be found here.