Donald Clark Ruggles Jr. passed away peacefully on Friday, November 20th in Rochester, NY. He was always enjoying the outdoors from hunting to gardening and everything in between including growing apple trees on a busy street in the burbs and raising chickens in the backyard! Don was born into humble beginnings in Hoosick Falls, NY on December 18, 1948. He went to school in a one room schoolhouse, and really did walk miles to school.
He is predeceased by his Father Donald Clark Ruggles Sr., sister Janice Ruggles, sister Patricia Hathaway, aunts Ruth Allen, Doris Hunt
Don is survived by his wife Carol Paola Ruggles, son Donald III (Nicole), daughter Heather (Patrick Doyle predeceased), grandchildren Donald IV (Angel), Isabella, Brianna, Teegan, Tatum, Colton, great grandchildren D’Angelo, Gino, and DB, also survived by his Sister Shirley Cameron (Kenny), nieces, aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws, nephews and many friends.
Don was a happy go lucky guy who was health conscious, believed in being positive, and kept very active every single day. He was a strong man who entered the Marines at the age of 17, during the Vietnam Era. After he served, he moved to Rochester determined not to be a farmer. Don would race cars and win many trophies for his gold Plymouth GTX “Goldrush”. People called him “Mr. Goldrush” in fact. He always worked hard and eventually settled down to provide a great life for his family. Don cared about everyone and would do anything for them but not without a lesson or two first! He rooted for his favorite team the Pittsburgh Steelers and a variety of Nascar drivers, but only if they drove a dodge! They don’t make them like that anymore! We love you Don!
A memorial will be held for Don in Spring 2021.
Rest in peace Don..
A precious life well lived.
Our sincere condolences to the family of this wonderful man.
Bless you all.
I love you Dad! Missing you so much every minute. We will take it one day at a time and always rise to the occasion no matter how hard the obstacles may be. Thank you for all you have instilled in me and the lessons learned will guide me through life to the end.
Still working on the quit while your ahead part!!
Love you forever and a day, I can still hear you singing “Daddddies Girrrrrrrl” and we sure do miss you just like you said we would. Hold a place for me! Give my love to Patrick, Grandpa Don, Aunt Pat, Aunt Doris Aunt Ruth and everyone we’ve lost. And if you see my Pinkie dog give her a big hug.
I Love you Dad!
The minute you met Don you knew you would never forget him.. A larger than life personality with many interests and talents.. You could always count on him to “call the shots” as he saw them. He loved and was devoted to his family. A true family man who loved life. Don was a survivor and his legacy of courage and strength will not be forgotten. My heart and prayers go out to his family . Don is missed but is not missing.
I’m so very sorry for your loss! You have my deepest sympathy. I know Don through his daughter Heather and I’m so glad you were able to be right by his side during his transition. I pray for the families upliftment at this time.
Don, You were like my second dad growing up and definitely had a lot of memories driving to Florida with you and the family.. You made sure Heather and me learn some lessons with our crazy antics..You always made me laugh when you came into the cafe and we talked about the coffee.. You will be missed.. Rest In Peace Don..
Don’ s Personality was larger than life. I remember meeting him as a child driving the around the neighborhood In his gold car. He met my sister when she was 17 and has been with her ever sense. He was a no nonsense guy, He loved his country and what it stood for. Don and Carol were caregiver for many family members whether just having coffee with them or cooking or taking my mother to the doctor.. He had an opinion.on everything, At the end of the day he was a husband and father and took care of his family. RIP Don I’m sure you are sitting with aunt Theresa and uncle Harry and Dad talking Politics and having coffee right at this moment. I won’t say goodbye only that will see you down the road.
For over 40 years our family’s have known each other. As a brother teamster we would talk about anything from driving trucks to hemi cars. We watched our kids grow up from toddlers to adults.going to miss out talks on the phone and going to miss you. Rest in peace don.
You are deeply missed Pops , (grandpa) rest easy now , you are at peace now . Til we meet again, I Love you, your son, Donald III
So much love going out to the entire Family. What a wonderful memoriam highlighting such an interesting and fantastic life. Our deepest condolences to Heather, Carol, and Isabella. We will light a candle tonight in celebration of Dons life.
Don & Family, We are sadden by the loss of you Father. Although I never met your Father I heard much about him from my friend and co-worker Don. You were there for me when I lost my Dad and I am here for you as well if you need anything. So glad you had some quality time with your Dad. Always keep close to your heart the good times. Our deepest condolences, Frank & Debbie Vascukynas
Carol,
So sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I am sure Uncle Don, Meme (Ruth) and Aunt Doris greeted Junie with open arms.
May your memories help you through the hard days.
Debbie