A Graveside Service for John "Jack" W. Ruggeri of Mountain Home, Arkansas, will be 2:00 pm, Monday, October 26, 2015, at Kirby's Tucker Memorial Cemetery Scattering Gardens, with Chaplain Lynn Beck officiating. Military Honors will be provided by Ozark V.F.W. Post #3246 and U.S. Army Honor Guards.
Jack passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, October 20, 2015, at the age of 93. Jack was born March 13, 1922, in Norris, Illinois. He is survived by his four daughters, Victoria Kepler of Branson, MO, Julie (Lonnie) Myers of Canton, IL, Kathleen (Kevin) Isaacs of Mountain Home, AR and Marcy (Ron) Williams of Canton, IL; six grandchildren and three great-grandsons. Preceding him in death are his parents, Barney and Beryl (Grissom) Ruggeri; one sister, Gayle Svob; two infant children and his beloved, faithful four-legged companion, Teddy.
Jack proudly served in the United States Army during World War II as a Sergeant in the 91st Infantry Division from 1942 to 1945. Jack was a Squad Leader in charge of 9 men engaging in scouting and reconnaissance work. Jack was responsible for the discipline and safety of his squad. Jack received 2 Overseas Service Bars, American Theater Ribbon, European African Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon, 3 Bronze Battle Stars, Good Conduct Medal and a Bronze Star Medal. Jack received Commendation for Meritorious Service Commended, Outstanding Performance of Duty and Commendation for Heroic Achievement on the Field of Battle. After returning from the war he married Jacqueline Rumler. Jack and Jackie built and owned Rennab Kennels in Banner, Illinois, where they bred and trained Black Labrador Retrievers for 17 years. Jack was the founder of the Mid Illinois Retriever Club. After retiring from Keystone Steel and Wire, he made his home in Weyakwin, Saskatchewan, Canada. With the help of his good friends, he built a cabin on Lake Weyakwin and lived there for 19 years. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and he enjoyed countless hours on the lake. Jack always spoke very highly and often of his Canadian friends, whom he cherished.
Jack wrote many political editorials that were published in the Baxter Bulletin newspaper spanning many years.
Dad, you will be forever in our hearts.
Memorials may be made to the Humane Society of your choice.
Arrangements are by Kirby and Family Funeral and Cremation Services.