Burrichter, Owen Todd

Owen Todd Burrichter, 4, died peacefully at his home Wednesday, July 24, 2013.

A celebration of Owen's life will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 27, at Wesley United Methodist Church in Vinton, with the Rev. Dr. Judith Bunyi officiating. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at Van Steenhuyse-Russell Funeral Home in Vinton. Private family committal services will be held in Smithtown Cemetery, rural Lost Nation.

Owen was born Feb. 5, 2009, in Waterloo, the son of Darren and Julie Ruggeberg Burrichter. Owen liked playing with his cars, trucks and trains and helping his dad with his car. He especially enjoyed playing with his cousins.

He is survived by his parents; his maternal grandparents, Janet and Dave Wethington of Tipton; his paternal grandparents, Don and Linda Burrichter of Shellsburg; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Dennis Ruggeberg.

Owen has donated his cancer cells to research so that he might help other children.

His family wishes to thank the staff at St. Jude's Hospital.

A memorial fund has been established.

Van Steenhuyse-Russell Funeral Home is caring for Owen and his family.

Condolences may be left at vsrfh.com.

Published July 26, 2013 in The Gazette