Brian Jeffrey Ruhl

Brian J. Ruhl, age 52, died unexpectedly, on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at Sanford Medical Center in Fargo, North Dakota.

A celebration of his life will be held at 12 noon, on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at Lind Family Funeral Home in Alexandria.

The visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of sharing at noon.

Brian was born on February 19, 1973, to James and Linda (Schlupp) Ruhl in Nuremberg, Germany where his father was stationed in the U.S. Army. His family lived in El Paso, Texas for a short time before moving to Joliet, Illinois. In 1985, they moved to Long Prairie, Minnesota where Brian graduated from high school in 1991. Following his high school education, Brian furthered his studies at the Brainerd/Staples Regional Technical College. He earned his Culinary Arts associate degree and began his life-long love of cooking. He began his career at Arrowwood Resort where he worked for nearly 20 years and met the love of his life, Becky. Brian was united in marriage to Rebecca “Becky” Olson on October 5, 1996, at Yellow Medicine Lutheran Church in Hanley Falls. Following their marriage, they made their home in Alexandria where they raised their daughters. Brian continued working as a cook/culinary manager at the Holiday Inn, assisted living centers, nursing homes, Grand Arbor and most recently at the Speedway Gas Station. His hobbies included woodworking, puzzles, Lego building, watching movies and cooking for his beloved family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents; and dog, Maggie.

Brian is survived by his wife of 29 years, Becky; two daughters, Samantha “Sam” L. (Ryan) Baxter of Kensington and Hannah M. Ruhl of Alexandria; two brothers, Ken Ruhl of Kansas City, Missouri and Michael Ruhl of St. Cloud; sister, Catherine “Cathy” Houston of Alexandria; two grandchildren, Atlas Daniel and Sheridan Francis Baxter; along with many nieces and nephews.