Gene Clifford Ruby, 90

Gene Clifford Ruby, 90, took his final call March 25, 2024, boarding his last train to ride the rails for eternity. Gene was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose presence enriched the lives of all who knew him. We suspect that before the train was too far out of the station he was pulling the throttle. 

Born Nov.  9, 1933, on the shores of Flathead Lake in Somers, to George and Bess (Cummings) Ruby. He attended Somers school and graduated in 1951 from Flathead County High School. He was a member of the Somers Methodist Church. He married Marilyn (Korb) on Dec. 20, 1952, and was married for 71 years at the time of his passing. 

In 1951 he went to work for the Great Northern Railroad where his career as a railroad conductor spanned over four decades, during which he navigated countless miles of steel tracks with skill and dedication igniting within him a lifelong passion for the railway. His knowledge of railroads was vast, and he shared it with whomever would listen. After retiring in 1995, Gene took his devotion for trains North to Canada and where he engineered a steam locomotive at Fort Steele. 

The family moved to Whitefish in 1954 and on 2nd and Park Avenue is where they raised their three boys. Gene and his family spent time camping, fishing, and playing cribbage. He was an excellent player. They moved to the head of Whitefish Lake in 1974, where they lived for 35 years. One of Gene’s favorite pastimes during this time was taking family and friends out in their pontoon boat. 

Beyond the rails, Gene was a pillar of his community, known for his kindness, generosity, warm smile, and his signature mutton chops. Throughout his life he was an active member of the Whitefish United Methodist Church, the Moose Lodge, the Columbia Falls Food Bank, and a non-sanctioned four-wheeling gang. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Bess Ruby; and brother, Bruce Ruby. 

His surviving family includes the love of his life, Marilyn; brother, Howard (Frances); sons, Randy (Susan), Dave (Barb), and Jerry; grandchildren, Jason (Anna), Jennifer (Silas), Jody (Travis), Scott (Janelle), and Kayla (Joseph); and twelve great-grandchildren. 

As he reached the final station of life’s journey, his spirit departed like a silent train slipping into the night, leaving behind the echoes of memories and the faint whistle of farewell. 

Come celebrate with the Ruby’s at 7 p.m. on April 17, at the Whitefish Moose Lodge. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Gene’s name to the Whitefish Moose Lodge.