Linda Diana Rufenacht, age 78, passed unexpectedly on March 2, 2026, and is now in the presence of her Savior.
Linda was born July 30, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois, to Edward and Nellie Marquardt. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister, June Lewis (Jerry), and her parents-in-law Glen and Laura Rufenacht. She is survived by her sister, Barbara Marquardt, and many nieces and nephews.
Linda shared 57 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband, Max Rufenacht. They met in Chicago while Max was in voluntary service and Linda was a nursing student. Their love story began there and eventually led them to Pettisville, Ohio—where Linda embraced country life with joy.
Linda was the devoted mother of three surviving daughters: Jennifer Depner (Steve), Lisa Roth (Reed), and Beth Wyse (Tony). She was also a proud and loving grandmother to Hunter (Kathleen), Ethan (Lily), Izzy (Daniel), Aiden, Ty, Lexi (Tyler), and Emma, along with four cherished great-grandchildren, Paxton, Leighton, Ellah, and Ruston.
Her family was the great joy of her life. Linda was their biggest supporter and most faithful fan—always encouraging, always present, and always proud.
Linda spent more than 52 years serving others as a nurse in many roles, including home care, hospice, cardiac rehabilitation, and nursing supervision. Caring for people was not simply her profession—it was part of who she was. She carried a compassionate heart and a natural desire to help those around her.
She loved animals and the peaceful rhythm of country life. Many mornings and evenings found her near the barn with her horses, holding a dog or cat close, or sitting on her porch watching the sunrise or the birds. She also loved to read and enjoyed the quiet moments a good book could bring.
Most importantly, Linda loved her Savior, Jesus Christ. Her faith was the foundation of her life. She spent regular time in God’s Word, prayed faithfully for her family, and quietly served in her church, often caring for the youngest children in the nursery.
Linda was often the one her family turned to for words of wisdom and encouragement. She had a deeply empathetic heart and a gentle way of helping others feel seen, understood, and cared for. Though her family will miss her greatly, they hold tightly to the promise of Christ and the hope of eternal life.
“I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die.” John 11:25-26
Visitation for Linda will take place on Friday, March 13, 2026, at Crossroads Church in Wauseon, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. A celebration of Linda’s life will take place on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 11 a.m., with Pastor Matt Strader officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the benevolence of the family. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.grisierfh.com. The Edgar-Grisier Funeral Home of Wauseon is honored to serve the Rufenacht family. The obituary for Linda was lovingly prepared by her family.