Ruben Oberlander left this earth to join his heavenly family on June 23, 2024 at Miles City Montana. Ruben was born to Jacob and Martha Steinback at Plevna, Montana. He graduated from Plevna High School in 1946 and was married to Helen Schuetzle on September 4, 1949. Ruben and Helen celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary just 3 days before her passing. Their son, Dale, joined the family in January of 1951 and their daughter, Denise, in November of 1955.
One of Ruben’s most precious memories was the opportunity to participate in the Honor Flight. His trip to Washington D.C. was an experience he talked about with such pride and gratitude. We are truly grateful to all who were instrumental in coordinating the Honor Flight. His military service started in 1946. His duties in Occupied Germany included being a cryptographic technician- coding and decoding messages, part-time interpreter, and a member of the Counter Intelligence Corp.
Ruben and Helen lived in Plevna, Baker, Glendive, and Sidney, Montana, and Jamestown and Dickinson, North Dakota before settling in Miles City, Montana in January of 1962. His vocations included owning a gas station, retail sales with Montgomery Ward and Sears Roebuck, and eventually owning a Sears Catalog Agency. One of the jobs he really enjoyed in retirement was as a Walmart greeter. This gave him a chance to visit with customers he had when he worked at Sears.
A famous quote by Winston Churchill: “We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give”. Service was in Ruben’s heart and soul. He was a member of Kiwanis for 62 years where he worked hard in so many capacities including as the club president in 1974, Lieutenant Governor and Governor for the state of Montana from 1993-1994. He was awarded the Tablet of Honor, the highest award anyone can receive. His favorite opportunity was being the Kiwanis advisor for the Washington Middle School Builders Club. Nothing brought him more joy in Kiwanis than serving beside those amazing kids and advisors.
His community was so important to him and he spent time on the Miles City City Council where he served as President, Miles City School District Board of Trustees, Crimestoppers, Miles City Chamber President, Miles Community College Foundation Secretary, Volunteer at Holy Rosary Hospital for over 20 years, and a volunteer with the Miles City Police Station. His favorite volunteer job was as Mr. Popcorn at Holy Rosary Hospital. His popcorn was the best in the west.
Above all, Ruben loves his family and serving others. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church. Ruben’s prayers were heartfelt and reflected love beyond measure.
He is survived by his daughter Denise (Jay) Harvey, daughter-in-law Jane Oberlander; his grandchildren Kiara Held, Jeff Oberlander, Christa (Mark) Schoenfeld, Charles Harvey, and Jason (Marcia) Oberlander; his great-grandchildren Rylie, Rori, and Bryce Schoenfeld; Trae, Kaeden, and Chaes Oberlander; Zyrie Held; and Landon Oberlander.
He is also survived by his sister-in-law Viola Schuetzle and many cherished nieces, nephews, and caring neighbors. He was preceded in death by his son Dale in April of 2024, his brothers Johnny, Clarence, and Leonard, and his sister Betty,
It takes a village to raise a child and it takes a village to help a beloved community member leave this life with comfort, grace, and dignity. Our deepest gratitude to all. The family requests in lieu of flowers any memorials be made to Washington Middle School to be divided between STEAM Team (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) and Builders Club. Donations may be mailed to Washington Middle School, 1604 Main, Miles City, Montana 59301.
Service Schedule
Visitation
12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Friday July 5, 2024
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
825 S. Moorehead Ave
Miles City, MT
Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
Friday July 5, 2024
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
825 S. Moorehead Ave
Miles City, MT
Interment with Full Military Honors
Following Services
Friday July 5, 2024
Eastern Montana State Veterans Cemetery
Miles City, MT
Service Schedule
Visitation
12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Friday July 5, 2024
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
825 S. Moorehead Ave
Miles City, MT
Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
Friday July 5, 2024
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
825 S. Moorehead Ave
Miles City, MT
Interment with Full Military Honors
Following Services
Friday July 5, 2024
Eastern Montana State Veterans Cemetery
Miles City, MT
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Carrie Beach Etherington says
Denise,
Your mom and dad were such amazing people. They were so good to my Ari when he attended their church. You and your family are in my thoughts. Love you friend, Carrie
BERNADETTE MILLER says
Ruben was a part of my life for many years. My Mom worked for him at Sears and Roebuck for many years back in the 70’s and 80’s. And Ruben was a favorite volunteer at HRH – always asked questions when needed and knew how to direct people throughout the whole building. He was a good guy! Him and Helen are back together!
Mary Luhr says
Denise and family,
So sorry for your loss. Your father was always so friendly when he was volunteering at the hospital and my daughter loved him in FFA at the high school. May the Lord wrap you in His loving arms during this time.
Garth Sleight says
We met Ruben and Helen shortly after we moved to Miles City 38 years ago. We thought very highly of both of them. They lived full, rich lives and were a tremendous blessing and example to their family and to the community. There were times when the Jolly Old Elf from up North at the Polar Icecap was too booked to make visit to children in Miles City, so Ruben would be his surrogate. He did a wonderful job and sure had me fooled.
Sincerest condolences to Denise, Jay, and the rest of the family and many friends.
Susanne Galbraith says
Denise,
Please accept my condolences for the loss of your father. Even though he lived a long full life, there will be a part of your heart that will miss him. Thinking of you and your family.
Allen and Cindy Kelm says
We are so sorry for your loss. Your dad & mom were such wonderful people. Our prayers of comfort and hugs for you and your family!
De Nice Curry and Kimberly Feil says
Denise
Our condolences for the loss of your dad. He is at peace in the heavens above and smiling down on you now.
Carilee Sleight says
Condolences to the Oberlander and Harvey families. Ruben was a wonderful man, and volunteered faithfully wherever he could, whether it was in City government, or at the hospital, or with clubs. He is in a place of peace now, free from the cares of this world, waiting for his family to join him.
Dolores Steiner says
Denise Jay and family sorry to hear about your dad and losing your brother Dale too . Your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Martin and Dolores Steiner.
Vanessa Raschkow says
Denise and family
My heart aches for you all, Ruben was one sweet guy, true gentleman, he will be missed by all.All my prayers and sympathy during this difficult time
Linda Cundall Niedge says
Denise and family, I am sorry to see that your dad has passed away. There is comfort in knowing he and your mom are now reunited.in Heaven. May that knowledge be with you as you mourn. Your parents always brought up our old Glendive connection when we would happen to meet. It always warmed my heart! God be with you and yours now, and in the future. Linda Cundall Niedge.
Karen Morris says
I was saddened to read that Ruben has left us all and gone on to that better place that has been promised. May you find comfort in your happy memories. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you. God bless!
Mohan Raffety says
Praying for you and Jay. The highest honor you can do on earth, in my book, is of the kids taking care of their parents in old age. You and Jay have done just that. Your father and father in Law was loved by your both, and I am in aw on how loved he was by you both, seeing and learning in conversation. Both of you now feel that he is at rest, and he is with his Lord and Savior, waiting for you, and with his wife. Blessings to you both for comfort and much love to you both. Let the memories be your guide now, and remember, grief has no bounds. Blessings!
Michael and Myrna Haughian says
We are sorry for your loss. We enjoyed visiting both Ruben and Helen. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Marc and Denise Hartse says
Our sympathies to the Oberlander family. We knew Ruben for many and will miss him.
Kyle & Gail Shaw says
Denise, Your Dad was a part of the fair for so many years. He was never late and always had a smile. I marveled at his stamina and how he liked the community. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Diane M Welbes says
Thoughts and prayers to his family.
Raylynn Sleight says
Ruben was such a wonderful human! I have many fond memories of him as everybody’s adopted grandpa. He lived a life dedicated to his family and serving others and I’m so grateful I knew him. May your family feel peace and comfort in the coming days.
Cheryl Rainey Yasuda says
Rueben has left a large footprint in the community in so many ways. He and Helen raised wonderful children and left such a legacy of service, love and kindness to all those who crossed their path. We will miss him immensely, but know he has graduated top of his class and is so thrilled to be united with his beloved Helen. Denise, Jay, Charles, Christa and family, we consider you family and keep you in our prayers for peace.
June Opp says
To all of Ruben’s family. I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your dad. He has been a very special friend since childhood back in Plevna.My thought’s and prayers are with you all that God will bless and comfort you all during this time and in the days to come.
June Opp
Kim Stanton says
Dear Denise, Jay, and family—
I’m so very saddened to read your beloved father and grandfather has passed. Ruben never tired of serving others and making the world a better place. He and your mom led an exemplary life for all of us to emulate. He was a wonderful human being in so many ways. Miles City has lost a treasure. Wishing you the consolation of the Holy Spirit and strength in the coming days. May the peace of Christ be yours. With loving sympathy,
Kim Stanton
Pam Rogge says
Denise and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time and in the days ahead. Cherish the memories.
Teffy Whicker says
So sorry for your loss. Praying for you and your family.
Lori Kay Mccoy says
Ruben was such an amazing man and neighbor. Was at sears forever until no was at hospital for ever. Always friendly. Weather I gone 1 year 5 years 15 years he always called me by my name. Probably a couple more names my teenage years . just kiddimg.
Jessica Lofland says
Denise and Family:
I am so sorry for your loss. After being neighbors for so many years, it was good to have your parents across the street when I moved home. Ruben stopped by shortly after mom went into the rest home and offer very sweet words of support. May he rest in peace.
Jerry & Gayle Struck says
Before covod hit, we enjoyed our morning coffee clutch with Rubin at McDonalds. He was a very interesting Gentleman with lots of stories. He was truly one of a kind. Rest in peace.
Laura Jane Willson says
I’m so very sorry to learn of your dad’s passing. Both your parents were such special people. Keep all your memories close to your heart.
Jeff says
A leader, a giver a lover for all men. Grandpa O really truthfully walked a righteous path. My heart pours
Darcy Metzenberg says
Denise, Jay, and family,
I have many fond memories of both Ruben and Helen as volunteers and neighbors. They were always happy to share a warm greeting, friendly smile, and many stories. I appreciate getting to know them both over the years. My sincere sympathy to you all.
Sandy McFarland Hays says
Was so sorry to see that Ruben had passed. He always took the time to stop and chat. Sending prayers and condolences.
Beth A Schneider says
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family
Doreen Steiner Boyer says
Denice & family, What a wonderful man your dad was. He hired me for my first real job – working at Sears. I always enjoyed visiting with him when I was back in Miles City. He truly was a great community member and will be missed. My thoughts are with all of you.
Doreen
Martha Crandall says
My sympathy
Larry and Elaine Klos says
For us, the Churchill quote reflects Ruben’s essence. He was an always cheerful, good person who loved to help others. As a personal example of his help for a nephew, after receiving an unexpected call from us, arriving after a 1,400-mile road trip with misaligned and worn tires, he found a dealer to fix our car while he entertained us with stories of his life and war years. We all should follow in his absent footsteps.
Beth Ann Wiedeman says
Denice and family, my thoughts and prayers r with u. “Grandpa” held a special place in my heart. My your memories fill your heart with comfort.
Tom and Barb Finneman says
So sorry to hear about Rueben. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May you find comfort in all the wonderful memories and knowing he is now with Mom/Grandma.
Roberta Morgan Rickman says
Denise, so sorry for the loss of your dad.
Charlene and Jack says
We were so sorry to hear that you have lost your dear dad and grandfather. He was out and about , going to coffee and visiting with people, and then I just didn’t see him driving back home anymore. We will miss him in the neighborhood, who will look after us all? I could count on a call whenever the electricity was out to see if it was just him or the whole neighborhood. Good people, both your mom and dad. Rest in peace, Ruben. May you all remember him and have a happy heart, he loved you all.
Lloyd & Jan Sohl says
Denice and the Oberlander families. Our sympathy to each of you in the loss of Ruben, a hard-working community minded man as I remember him.
Lloyd & Jan Sohl says
Denice and family, our sympathy to each of you in the loss of Ruben, a hard-working community minded man as I remember him.
Jan Munroe says
I am so sorry for your recent losses of Dale and your dad. I remember your dad came to our classroom and talked of his experience after WWII with the war trials where he was used as a translator for the less publicized trials and the conditions in Europe after the war. We all enjoyed and appreciated his visit with us. I am sure two losses in such a short time is difficult to bear!
Robyn Barthelmess says
Denise
I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers as you navigate this path. May God surround you and your family in His Grace and Mercy.
Robyn
Patricia M Mott says
Denise, Jay, Krista and Charles
What a shock to hear that Ruben has passed away. Take care, Denise, in this difficult time.
Butch and Julie Krutzfeldt says
A truly wonderful man and dear friend. Our deepest sympathy and love to all.
Danielle and Steve Ray says
Denise and family, you are all in our thoughts and prayers with the loss of your beloved father and recent loss of your brother. Please take extra good care in this difficult time, hugs and love sent your way!
Sue (LeBeau) Atwell says
Sorry for your loss. I met Rueben when he came to Glendive to help me learn how to manage the Sears store. He made a lot of trips to help us. He was very knowledgeable and fun to work with! He was a Good Man and will be Greatly Missed!
Ellen. Hart says
Denise, Jay and family. My deepest sympathy to you all. Ruben exemplified a life of service to others. So glad he can be with Helen again.
Pat Grantham says
Denise and family. Rueben and Helen were my neighbors for the 12 years that I lived in Miles City. I always remember Rueben’s great sense of humor and positive attitude. I especially remember how proud he was to be selected for the Honor Flight. My deepest sympathy to your entire family. May all your fond memories provide comfort to you as you grieve your loss.
Meredith and Dennis Hirsch says
Sorry for your loss. Rueben was always so friendly. He will be missed.
Jenette Denson says
Rueben, It has been such an honor to serve with you as we mentored years and years of Builders Club kids at Washington Middle School. Thank you for the gift of leadership you provided and the meaning of community service to our kids! Rest easy.