Raymond A. Ruggiero's Obituary
Raymond A. Ruggiero’s full and vivacious life ended on January 11, 2016. He lived 82 wonderful years, bringing great joy, generosity, kindness, and belly laughs to the lives of everyone that he met. His spirit will live on in the hearts of his large, beautiful family, all of whom are proud to have known such a determined, intelligent, and adoring man. Raymond was born on June 5, 1933 to Gabriel and Mary Ruggiero (both deceased).
Some of Raymond’s fondest memories came from the days he spent “courting” Barbara Frank Ruggiero (also deceased), who would one day become his beloved wife. Raymond ushered Barbara to her seat at the Lyric Theater in Cleveland, Ohio and knew that he would have to walk the prettiest girl he’d ever seen home that night. The rest is a love story for the ages. Raymond married Barbara on February 23, 1952. They celebrated their 60th anniversary on a Canadian cruise in 2012, surrounded by family.
Raymond was a dear brother to Mary Lou Nuzzi (Andrew) and a cherished father of Linda Ruggiero Hottel (Tim), Diane Ruggiero (Jim Guy), James (Kathy), Kenneth (Kathy), Steven (Jenn), and the late Michael (Carol). He was a grandfather to 17 and a great grandfather to 6. Raymond’s absolute favorite days were when his family could be together.
Raymond had a long and fruitful career with the Ford Motor Company in Brook Park, Ohio, moving up the ranks from apprentice electrician to superintendent. He retired in 1990. Raymond also enjoyed golf, bowling, photography, and of course, watching Cleveland sports. He was a skilled organ player, and he loved to dance, especially with Barbara.
Though Raymond will be sorely missed by many, he is undoubtedly reunited with the love of his life once more. In lieu of flowers, his family requests contributions to the Naples Community Hospital Foundation (PO Box 234, Naples, FL 34106) in memory of Raymond & Barbara Ruggiero. Friends may call from 10AM – 12 NOON on MONDAY, JANUARY 18th 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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