John Ruggiero

John Ruggiero, 96, passed away Thursday, July 11 at his home in East Moriches, New York. 

John was born December 10, 1927 to John and Christina (Juliana) Ruggiero in Buffalo, NY. He graduated from Jamestown (NY) High School in 1945 and attended Allegheny College in Meadville, Pennsylvania, earning a degree in Education. Upon his graduation in 1949 John applied to a mission program of the Methodist Church and was assigned to teach school in Kodiaikanal, India for three years. After his return to the United States, John obtained a Masters Degree from the Teachers College of Columbia University. He took a job in Eastport, NY as a high school teacher, where he taught for the next 35 years.

He attended the Methodist Church in East Moriches, which is where he met Ruth Petzschke. John and Ruth were married on July 15, 1956, with John's father performing the ceremony. Son Stephen was born a year later, followed by James in 1961. The family spent many summers camping and traveling on vacations. John was very active in the church as a member of the choir and holding various financial positions within the church. He also served as a delegate to the Methodist Church's Annual Conferences and General Conferences for a number of years. John was also elected as a member of the East Moriches Board of Education, even serving as president for a term. After retiring from teaching, John took up golf and spent several days a week playing with his golfing buddies.

John is survived by his wife, Ruth; sons Stephen and James; and grandchildren Marissa (Ruggiero) Seaman and Scott Ruggiero. John was preceded in death by his parents and younger brother Robert.

A memorial service will be held at the East Moriches Methodist Church Friday October 25 1pm. 

East Moriches United Methodist Church

370 Montauk Hwy

East Moriches, NY 11940