James Kenneth Ruffing

On November 6, 2023, James Kenneth Ruffing left this world to begin his life in heaven where he will wait patiently for the love of his life Jeannette, his wife of 64 years. Together, they raised five sons: James Kevin (Grace Lawley), Jeffrey Keith, Joseph Karl (Clara Mayne), John Kirk (Cathy Love) and Jerry Kirk (Laurie Nemanic). They also have eight grandchildren: Jessica Ruffing, Katelyn Ruffing, Jeffrey Ruffing, Michael Ruffing, James Ruffing, Julia Ruffing, Emma Ruffing, and Taylor Nemanic and one great-granddaughter, Ava Pawlowski, who has a special place in Jim’s heart. Jim was one of the nine children of Lawrence and Catherine Ruffing and was preceded in death by brothers Lawrence and Leo Ruffing and sisters Betty DePaul, Lois Miller, and Alice Petrulo. Jim is survived by his brothers Jack, Gilbert, and Don Ruffing.

Jim lived a selfless life helping his family, friends, and others, in any way he could, sharingfreely of his time, wisdom, humor, emotions and love, every day of his life. Jim demonstrated the importance of establishing and maintaining relationships. A 1953 graduate of Central Catholic High School, Jim was instrumental in connecting and supporting his former classmatesthrough regular meetings and reunions. He also brought people together through his tireless work with the annual Lincoln Avenue Picnic and the Ruffing family reunion. Jim always made the effort to let others know that their relationship was important to him. Throughout his life he was an active member of the Catholic Church, being a long-term choir member of the St. Gerard Majella church and most recently by attending St. Susanna’s Church - Christ the Divine Shepherd Parish in Penn Hills. He demonstrated his commitment to his country by serving in the U.S. Army. He lived his life in the way Jesus Christ instructed us all to live. He set an example by working hard, volunteering, caring for others, staying active, and being an involved member of the community throughout his life. 

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at CHARLES W. TRENZ FUNERAL HOME INC., 11110 Frankstown Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15235 from 2-4 PM & 7-9 PM on Thursday and Friday November 9th and 10th. A funeral mass will be celebrated on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Susanna Church of Christ the Divine Shepherd Parish, 200 Stotler Road, Penn Hills, PA 15235. Feel free to help Jim’s favorite charity – St. Jude’s Hospital for children.