Gregory D. Rue

Gregory “Greg” D. Rue, age 74, passed away unexpectedly from a brief illness on March 9, 2026.

Greg was born on January 24, 1952, to John and Geraldine (Baumgard) Rue. He was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Jefferson and attended St. John’s parochial  school.  He graduated from Jefferson High School in 1970. On February 8, 1974, he married Roberta “Bobbie” Gerhardt and together they had 3 sons; David, Mike, and Paul. Greg and Bobbie celebrated their 52nd wedding anniversary a month before his passing.

In 1975 Greg and Bobbie purchased Baumy’s Lanes from Greg’s grandmother, Edna Baumgard, and together they successfully ran it for 37 years before retiring in 2012. In 1978, they tore down the old bowling alley, and built a new one with 12 lanes- doubling it’s size. Greg loved bowling, especially competing in leagues with and against his sons. He had a sanctioned 300 game. Greg was a member of the Wisconsin non-pro association and in June of 1980, he won the season finale non-pro tournament in Oconomowoc. Greg was also a classic car enthusiast, and dearly loved his 1969 Chevelle convertible.

Greg is survived by his wife; Bobbie, Sons; David (Diane) Rue of Fort Atkinson, Michael (Carrie) Rue of Fort Atkinson, and Paul (Melanie) Rue of Milton, Greg is also survived by his siblings; Cherie (Ron) Auerbach of Rome, Jon (Patti) Rue of Mount Airy, MD, and Tom (Mindi) Rue of Jefferson. He is further survived by Grandchildren; Justin (Hailey) Rue, Anna Rue, Lilin (Ari) Rue, Amelia (Jake) Rue, Eli Rue, Hilde Rue, and Olivia Rue plus 7 (soon to be 8) great-grandchildren and Nieces; Lisa Auerbach and Alexis Rue.

Greg was preceded in death by his parents; John and Geraldine Rue, parents-in-law; Robert and Dolores Gerhardt, and his niece and nephew Michelle and Craig Auerbach.

Greg was blessed with a wonderful life, friends, and family.

Services for Greg will be held at St. John's Lutheran Church, 232 E. Church Street, Jefferson on Wednesday, March 18.  Visitation will be from 9:00am until 11:00am with services beginning at 11:00am.

Any memorials in Greg’s name may be given to St. John’s Lutheran Church.

Immediately following the service, there will be a gathering for all his family and friends at Klicka’s bowling alley in Jefferson, formerly known as Rue’s Premier Lanes.