Dr. Richard A. Zaruba, PhD, DPT

Dr. Richard Allen Zaruba, PhD, DPT, passed away from a stroke on Sunday, May 20, 2018.

Rich was born on December 5, 1967 in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Before graduating from Natrona County High School in Casper, Wyoming, Rich attended basic training and joined the Army Special Forces.  In 1994, Rich married Patricia Moulton in Casper, Wyoming.  They soon after moved to Grand Forks, ND to attend the University of North Dakota.  Rich went on to obtain a PhD in Anatomy and Cell Biology with a focus on Neuroscience and then went back to school to obtain a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. During this time Rich also served in several military reserve units and his daughter Angela was born.  After graduation, Rich started his physical therapy career in Northwood, ND and then soon moved to the Minot Air Force Base where he served as the Physical Therapy clinic director. After 5 years, Rich obtained a position with the new University of Jamestown Physical Therapy Doctorate program in Fargo, ND and the family moved to West Fargo.  Rich serve in this role for almost five years.

Rich loved using his neuroscience and physical therapy background to provide the best treatment to his patients and to give his physical therapy students the broadest knowledge possible as they start their careers. He was very passionate about learning and attended 100’s of continuing education hours each year, earned dozens of post-graduate certificates and lived for the field of physical therapy.  He was also a loving parent and husband enjoying time with the family and helping to shape his daughter Angela’s future.

He is survived by his wife Patricia Moulton and daughter Angela Zaruba; his sister Robin and step-sisters Tammy, Kathy (Boden), Shelly; nephews and nieces Zachary, Tom (Cindy) and Jennifer.

In lieu of flowers, please contribute to the Go Fund Me site that is listed under Richard Zaruba’s name or linked under his Caring Bridge for the future needs of his family.

Celebration of Life Service:   11AM Saturday, May 26, 2018, at the University of Jamestown Voorhees Chapel at 6000 College Lane in Jamestown, ND.

Military Honors provided by North Dakota National Guard Honors Team

West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center

westfuneralhome.com

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