John William Ruescher

John William Ruescher, 37, of Newark, DE / Elkton, MD passed away suddenly the afternoon of July 7, 2024, in the home he shared with Jennifer Donahue, his bonus kids, Beth and Alex Donahue, their dog Sage and 3 cats.

His family, large extended family and friends are deeply saddened by his passing, as he brought such joy through his humor (both appropriate and inappropriate), captivated them with his smile, astounded them with his sweet, silly, caring and positive nature, embraced them with his big hugs, and touched their hearts with his kind spirit. It was always, “just another day in paradise” to John.

Born on February 7, 1987, in Annapolis, MD, John was the child of Ronald Ruescher and Claudette (McComas). He spent his formative years in Damascus, MD. He played football and baseball but loved playing lacrosse the most. John completed his education at Damascus High School, graduating in 2005, where he was better known as JW. His favorite football team was the Indianapolis Colts and he also loved the Baltimore Orioles.

John hails from a proud lineage of military servicemen and knew from an early age that he wanted to serve our country. In his senior year of high school, he made the decision to enlist in the Army, he signed the dotted line and joined the ranks. John earned his jump wings, and proudly called himself a paratrooper. His was grateful for the opportunities provided in his military journey that even led him to Vicenza, Italy. He always had a strong interest in military history and was an avid fan of the military channel. His profound knowledge and enthusiasm for history made him a true history buff. His support for his 2nd amendment right did not go unnoticed nor did his undeniable patriotism.

John was a very talented and gifted artist. He loved drawing and making one-of-a-kind gifts for loved ones and friends. His artwork was so impressive, it has been tattooed on family members and even some Comcast coworkers. His artistic abilities also included woodworking, which he loved. Especially when he was afforded the opportunity build things with his best friend, Justin in the shop. He loved playing video games, and his favorite superhero was Batman.

John had a deep passion for music and possessed the ability to play the guitar and dabble in drums. His musical tastes were eclectic, but he held a special affinity for Blink182, considering them his All-time favorite band.

Having met in 2008, John and Blaislie tied the knot in 2012 with a memorable Vegas ceremony officiated by Elvis. For the majority of their time together, they resided in Baltimore County, Maryland, until a promotion opportunity led them to relocate to Newark, Delaware in 2018. While their romantic relationship may have changed, they were able to preserve their friendship through forgiveness and grace, they successfully co-parented their two wonderful children, Charlie and Daisy, with love and respect. The children were John's pride and joy, and he cherished his role as their father. His unconditional love and support for them knew no bounds. John found immense joy in being a dad, embracing this role wholeheartedly. Of all the names he has ever possessed, Dad was his favorite.

In 2009, John embarked on his professional journey with Comcast. Throughout his impressive 15-year tenure, he began humbly, handling inbound calls and eagerly absorbing knowledge from various departments. With determination and perseverance, he steadily climbed the corporate ladder, ultimately attaining a supervisory position. John found fulfillment in resolving issues for others, but his true passion lay in leading his own team. His dedication and expertise even earned him the opportunity to travel to Orlando for the esteemed National Comcast Jeopardy Championship.

John possessed exceptional culinary skills and was renowned for his prowess in the kitchen. He derived great joy from entertaining others and ensuring they left his table feeling “fat and happy.” Barbecuing held a special place in his heart, in fact, he had his very own dry seasoning recipe, fondly known as "dub rub," which added a unique and elevated flavor to his culinary creations.

John's spirit of encouragement, goofy sense of humor, and love extended far beyond his immediate family. He had a heart that was childlike, full of joy and always a people pleaser, his infectious dimpled smile brightened any room, even when it was mischievous. With an endless collection of inappropriate jokes, he had a knack for delivering them at just the right moment to bring levity to any situation. His talent for impersonations and reciting memorable movie quotes added to his charm. When you engaged in conversation with John, it felt like you had been lifelong friends, as he had a way of instantly forging a deep connection. He served as both your biggest fan and critic, offering unwavering support and criticism in equal measure. While he was not without flaws, displaying a strong-willed and stubborn nature at times, he always placed the needs of his family, particularly his children, above his own. The impact he made on the lives he touched through his positivity, humor, support, and mentorship will ensure that his legacy and memory endure indefinitely.

In 2020, John discovered love once again when he met Jen. When he moved in with her, Beth and Alex, their house became a home. He was happy and felt like he finally "had it all".

John is survived by his children Charles "Charlie" Ruescher, Daisy Ruescher, his best friend and their mother Blaislie Ruescher; his bonus children Beth and Alex Donahue, his promised partner and their mother Jennifer Donahue and her family; parents Ronald and Yolanda Ruescher and Claudette McComas Coyer. His sister Darien Dommel and his nephews Preston and Liam Parker; his mother-in-law, Karen Phillips, brother-in-law, William “Buddy” Conway and niece, Ashlea Taylor.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday July 25, 2024, at Fort Lincoln Cemetery, 3401 Bladensburg Rd, Brentwood, MD 20722 at 11:30am.

A Celebration of John's Life, hosted by his sister Darien Dommel, will follow at the Greenbelt American Legion Post 136, 6900 Greenbelt Rd, Greenbelt, MD 20770.

All are welcome. Those who choose to join the family to honor and celebrate John's life are encouraged to come as you are. Dress in what makes you comfortable. It's July. Everyone that knew John knows he preferred a good T-shirt and shorts (even when it was snowing) over a suit. Dress in what will help you celebrate his life.

Those interested in donating and supporting Blaislie, Charlie and Daisy directly during this very difficult time can do so at the family’s donation page.

Flowers can be sent to Fort Lincoln Cemetery or feel free to plant a tree in his honor or name a star after him to watch over his children.