Barbara J. Ruggiero's Obituary
Barbara J. Ruggiero’s vibrant life full of love ended on July 14, 2015. She lived 82 beautiful years, touching the lives of many by sharing her generous and graceful spirit with her family and friends. Barbara was born on December 5, 1932 to Clarence and Irene Frank (both deceased).
When Barbara was 18, she met Raymond Ruggiero, who worked at the Lyric Theater in Cleveland, Ohio. Raymond ushered Barbara to her seat and thought she was the prettiest girl he had ever seen. After the movie was over, he asked if he could walk her home. She said “yes” and the rest is history. Barbara and Raymond were married on February 23, 1952. They celebrated their 60th anniversary on a Canadian cruise in 2012, surrounded by their large and adoring family.
Barbara was a dear sister to the late Carol Frank Beers (Bob, also deceased) and a cherished mother of Linda Ruggiero Hottel (Tim), Diane Ruggiero (Jim Guy), James (Kathy), Kenneth (Kathy), Steven (Jenn), and the late Michael (Carol). She was a grandmother to 17 and a great grandmother to 5. Barbara’s favorite days were when her family could be together.
Barbara also enjoyed her golf and bowling leagues in Cleveland and Naples, and when she lived in Parma Heights, she was crowned a champion of the Holy Family Ladies Bridge Club with her best friend, Laurie Hill (deceased). Barbara was ever the social organizer, serving on her condo association’s events committee and getting groups together to see plays and “Concerts in the Park” in Naples. She was also “Babs the Bookie” for her family’s Super Bowl competition, a title that she wore proudly and took very seriously.
Barbara’s strength was best exemplified in her final days when she used her last ounces of energy to have a Skype conversation with her family in Ohio at their 5 Sisters Reunion. Barbara inspired many and will be deeply missed. In lieu of flowers, her family requests contributions to the American Lung Association. Friends may call from 10AM – 12 NOON on SATURDAY, JULY 25th at JARDINE FUNERAL HOME, 15822 PEARL ROAD, STRONGSVILLE, OH. Memorial service to follow at 12 noon at Jardine’s and interment at Holy Cross Cemetery. www.jardinefh.com
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