Robert Morris Ruger's Obituary
Robert Morris Ruger 12-10-1927 ~ 11-16-2010 "A Man in Full"
Robert Morris Ruger, aka "Pop" was born on December 10, 1927, in Gainesville Georgia and passed away on November 16, 2010, in Tacoma, WA. Robert was the son of renowned pianist Morris Hutchins Ruger and brother to Diana Spaulding (Vashon Island). Robert was a proud veteran of the United States Navy for six years as a Morse Code Technician during World War II and the Korean Conflict. Following his discharge from the Navy, Robert married Patricia Turner in 1946. Together, Robert and Patricia had four children, Cindy, Danny, Robbie and Mike. In 1964, Robert married Barbara Ann Jones and along with Barbara's 3 daughters, Donna, Diane and Kelly. Robert and Barbara had four girls, Tonya, Heidi, Martha, and Erin. Robert and Barbara raised these 11 children, living in Topanga Canyon, CA, and in 1968, moved the family to South Pasadena, CA. After graduating from USC with a degree in Mathematics, Robert began his career as mathematician, first working for North American and Rockwell International on the Apollo Space projects which eventually lead to the moon expedition. During the 1970's, Robert was an avid marathon runner. On April 17, 1978, after running in several state marathons, Robert realized his dream by qualifying for and completing the Boston Marathon at the age of 50. In 1978, Robert was recruited by Boeing as a computer programmer to support the simultaneous development of the 757 and 767 airplanes. In 1999, Robert moved to New Jersey to study and teach piano. His love for the piano and teaching children how to play brought Robert great joy. In 2006, Robert moved back to the Tacoma area. Robert was a man of many strengths and beliefs. He will be remembered as a proud, tenacious man motivated with a can-do attitude and a deep desire to succeed. Robert will be greatly missed by his family and those that had the opportunity to know him. We will miss him dearly and pray for his soul as he embarks on his next journey. R.I.P., POP. There will be a private family memorial on Sunday, November 21, 2010.
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