Obituary of Jacqueline Wood Ruf

Jacqueline Wood Ruf, 94, a long time area resident, died on Monday, February 15, 2021 at the Lutheran Care Center in Poughkeepsie. Jackie was born January 22, 1927 in Ossining, NY. She was a 1945 graduate of Peekskill High School. On May 17, 1947, she married James F. Ruf of New Hamburg, NY. Together they lived in Peekskill, NY; New Hamburg, NY; Broadalbin, NY; and New Smyrna Beach, FL. They travelled extensively throughout the United States and Europe. Jackie started her career as a telephone operator and joined IBM after moving to Dutchess County in the early 1960’s. She was an active member of St. Nicholas on the Hudson Episcopal Church and the New Hamburg Yacht Club. Survivors include her son James F. Ruf, Jr., and wife Antonia of New Smyrna Beach, FL; her daughter, Diane Levitt, and husband Richard of New Hamburg, NY; four granddaughters: Devon Chartier, Hilary Lewin, Erin Kamys, and Emily Levitt; many loved nieces and nephews; and her dearest friend, Mirek Ciskowski. Jackie will be laid to rest at Wappingers Rural Cemetery, where she joins her loving husband. Memorial donations in her name may be made to the Lutheran Care Center, 965 Dutchess Turnpike, Poughkeepsie, NY 12603. This institution brought wonderful care, love and comfort to Jackie during a very difficult time. Arrangements are under the direction of Straub, Catalano & Halvey Funeral Home, 55 East Main Street in Wappingers Falls. To send a personal condolence, please visit our website at www.StraubCatalanoHalvey.com.