Richard Ruckman

Richard E. Ruckman, age 69, of Willard, passed away Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at Crestwood Care Center in Shelby.

Rick was born April 13, 1952 in Shelby to the late Frederick D. and Betty M. (Mcbride) Ruckman. He was a 1970 graduate of Shelby High School. Rick spent his career in the insurance industry working for Shelby Mutual Insurance until its closing upon which he transferred to Illinois to continue his work until his early retirement due to disability.

Rick enjoyed singing in the church choir and performed at many weddings and funerals over the years. Chasing the sun brought Rick much joy. While he was still able, he spent his winters in St. Petersburg, Florida. He was an avid gardener and grew the most beautiful flowers. He was known for his alluring saucer-size hibiscus and rainbow array of lilies.

Many will remember him by his warm smile and sense of humor. Rick will be missed dearly, but his family and friends will always feel his presence looking down from the choirs and gardens of heaven.

Those who survive him include his two daughters: Tonya Ruckman of Canton and Carey Miller of Shelby; grandchildren: Kayla Dawson, Darian Miller, Makenna Miller, and Gavin Miller all of Shelby; great grandson: Bronxon; his brother: Tom (Mary) Ruckman of Bolivar, and their children and families: Missy (Dan) Russell and Adam (Samantha)

Ruckman; and his cousin: Pam Moser. In addition to his parents, Rick was preceded in death by his beloved dog, Jacque.

Family and friends are welcome on Wednesday, September 29, 2021 from 9:30 – 10:30 am at the Penwell Turner Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby with a funeral mass immediately following at 11 am at Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 29 West Street, Shelby. Fr. Chris Mileski will officiate with burial following in the church cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the church.

Appropriate ways to express sympathy for those unable to attend may be done by leaving an online condolence on Rick’s obituary at www.penwellturner. com or by leaving a comment on his post on the funeral home’s Facebook page, Facebook.com/ Penwellfuneral.