AKA Rip, Papa, Boo Boo, BobbyBoo, Uncle Bob, BobbyJean, Sponge, and Many Other Nicknames 

April 14, 1949 – June 27, 2026 

Bob Ruebsam will be remembered for many things, but above all, he brought joy and laughter to the lives of friends, family, and strangers alike. Whether through his quick wit, infectious smile, generous spirit, merry pranks, or unwavering encouragement, Bob had an extraordinary gift for making people feel welcome and valued. His kindness, humility, and genuine interest in others left an enduring mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him. There will be a little less laughter in a world without Bob. 

Bob was born in Bloomsdale, Missouri, to Bernell and Tecla (née Huck) Ruebsam. He attended St. Agnes Grade School before graduating from Valle Catholic High School. He went on to earn his degree from Southeast Missouri State University, beginning a distinguished career in the commercial insurance industry that spanned nearly five decades. 

Immediately following college, Bob joined Travelers Insurance as a commercial insurance underwriter, where he built a strong technical foundation and earned a reputation for his professionalism and expertise. He later transitioned to the commercial insurance brokerage business, where his talent for building relationships and developing people led him into leadership roles. Through dedication and vision, he rose to become the leader of the St. Louis office of Sedgwick James, earning the respect of colleagues, clients, and competitors alike. 

Bob concluded his remarkable career with more than twenty years at The Daniel & Henry Company. There, he became known not only for his industry knowledge but also for his unwavering commitment to mentoring others. He generously shared his experience with countless colleagues, helping shape the careers of many insurance professionals. Among those he mentored was his son, Jim, a relationship that brought Bob tremendous pride and allowed him to pass along both his professional knowledge and the values that guided his life. 

While Bob was highly respected in his profession, his greatest legacy was the impact he had on people. He possessed a rare gift for making others feel welcome, valued, and joyful. To many, he was simply known as “Uncle Bob”—not because of family ties, but because of the role he willingly embraced in the lives of so many friends’ children. He offered advice, encouragement, and a listening ear whenever it was needed, asking for nothing in return. 

Bob’s generosity extended well beyond his personal relationships. He was a devoted supporter of Angels’ Arms, helping provide stability and opportunity for foster children throughout the St. Louis area. He quietly mentored and supported numerous young people, never seeking recognition or accolades for his kindness. Helping others was simply who he was.

Away from work, Bob embraced life with enthusiasm. He was a passionate golfer whose love for the game was matched only by his remarkable luck, recording the rare feat of two hole-in-ones in a three-week span. He was also an avid fisherman who faithfully organized and attended an annual fishing trip with his closest friends for 53 consecutive years—a tradition that reflected the value he placed on lifelong friendships. 

Bob also found great joy in fellowship as a proud member of the Italia-American Bocce Club. Though one of the few non-Italian members to formerly serve on its board, he was welcomed as family, a testament to the warmth, humor, and authenticity that endeared him to everyone he met. 

Above all, Bob was devoted to his family. For the past twenty years, he shared a joyful relationship with his loving wife, Tess. He took every opportunity to be the glue that held family together, and he rarely missed reunions, gatherings, weddings, funerals, or birthdays. He was a close friend to many cousins and extended family. To Bob, family was his rock and foundation. He especially cherished his grandchildren, who lived a mile away. To them, he was “Papa”, and he was not only a doting grandfather, but also a babysitter, golf coach, fishing guide, ice cream aficionado, chauffeur, and much more. 

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Bernell and Tecla (née Huck) Ruebsam; his beloved son, Kevin Ruebsam; and many cherished aunts, uncles, and dear friends. 

He is survived by his loving wife, Tess McMahon; his son, Jim Ruebsam, and daughter-in-law, Jessica; and his treasured grandchildren, Harry, Rosie, and Charlie; his sister Linda Roth; and his brother Rick Ruebsam; all of whom brought him immeasurable joy. 

Bob’s legacy lives on through his family, his many lifelong friends, the colleagues whose careers he helped shape, and the countless people whose lives were made brighter by his humor, compassion, generosity, and unwavering belief in others. He demonstrated that a meaningful life is measured not simply by professional accomplishments, but by the laughter shared, the friendships nurtured, and the joy given to others. His example will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

A celebration of Bob’s life will be held at Rose on the Hill at 2300 Edwards St, St. Louis, MO 63110 on Saturday, July 18th from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A special tribute will be held at 5:00 PM. 

The family requests attendees RSVP HERE so that they can have sufficient food (and drink!). 

We ask that you not send flowers, but instead donate to Bob’s favorite charities, Angels Arms and Ready Readers.