Theodore V. (Ted) Rue

My Story

Theodore V. “Ted” Rue was born on August 13, 1898, in Wisconsin, during a time when the state’s small towns were growing through industry, agriculture, and strong immigrant communities. He was the son of Theodor Oliver Rue and Ida Iona (Hammer) Rue, and grew up in an era shaped by hard work, patriotism, and civic responsibility.

Like many young men of his generation, Rue came of age as the world was entering one of its most defining conflicts—World War I.

During World War I, Theodore Rue served in the United States Army, joining thousands of Wisconsin men who answered the nation’s call. His service placed him among the early generation of veterans who would later form the backbone of organizations like the American Legion.

Though specific details of his unit and deployment remain limited in surviving records, his service reflects the commitment and sacrifice shared by many returning soldiers who went on to strengthen their hometown communities.

Following his military service, Rue returned to civilian life in Stoughton, Wisconsin, where he became a working member of the local economy. He was employed by the Highway Trailer Company, one of the industrial employers contributing to the city’s growth in the early-to-mid 20th century.

He married Ida (Dewey) Rue, and together they were part of the fabric of Stoughton’s close-knit community. Like many families of the time, their lives were rooted in steady work, local involvement, and civic pride.

In 1934, Theodore V. Rue served as Commander of American Legion Post 59 in Stoughton.

This period was particularly significant. The nation was in the midst of the Great Depression, and local veterans’ organizations like the American Legion played a critical role in:

• Supporting fellow veterans and their families

• Promoting patriotism and civic engagement

• Providing stability and leadership within the community

As Commander, Rue would have been responsible for guiding the Post through these challenging times—organizing meetings, supporting veterans’ welfare, and maintaining the Legion’s mission of “Veterans serving Veterans, Community, State, and Nation.”

His leadership placed him among the early builders of Post 59, helping establish traditions and values that continue to this day.

Though not widely documented in newspapers or large historical accounts, Theodore Rue represents the type of community leader who quietly shaped Stoughton:

• A working-class citizen

• A veteran committed to service beyond the battlefield

• A leader trusted by fellow veterans

Records show he resided in Stoughton for much of his life, contributing to the steady continuity that defined the town’s growth through the early 20th century.

Theodore V. Rue passed away on August 15, 1958, just two days after his 60th birthday. He is buried at Riverside Cemetery in Stoughton, resting among many of the community members and veterans who shared in building the city’s legacy.

While Theodore V. Rue may not be widely known outside of local history, his impact is preserved through:

• His service in World War I

• His leadership as Commander of Post 59 (1934)

• His role as a working citizen contributing to Stoughton’s growth

He stands as a representative of the “Great War generation”—men who returned home, built communities, and ensured that the values of service and patriotism endured long after the war ended.

“Honoring the veterans who led, served, and built the foundation of Post 59 and the Stoughton community.”