James Ruff

RUFF, James Age 80, of Union, formerly of Trotwood, passed away Thursday, August 21, 2014 in the presence of his loving family following his courageous battle with cancer. He was born February 20, 1934 in Dayton to parents Joseph & Thelma (Veg) Ruff. Preceded in death by mother Thelma, father Joe, brother Ronald, sister Judy. James is survived by Wife of 61 years, Barbara, Brother; Gary Ruff, Children; David, James (Tina), Jerome, Dawn (Gary) Strain. Grandchildren; Melaney Strain (Bryant Ballengee), Jerry (Crystal) Strain, Danielle (Adam) Zehnder, Heather Ruff, and Great Grandchildren; Devin Rosales and expected arrival of Rylee Jo Strain. As a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather, his legacy includes a passion for all sports and lifelong fan of the Cincinnati Reds, plus many years as an Usher with the Dayton Dragons. James was a graduate of Roosevelt HS in 1952. He was considered by many to be a walking sports encyclopedia with an incredible sense of humor and a lasting smile to be remembered by all. James was inducted in 1975 into Dayton's Softball Hall of Fame Slow-pitch Association. His long careers included 20 years with Liberal Market Grocery Chain Management and 20 years in Sales for Proctor & Gamble. As a loving Husband, Dad, and Grandpa, he will be sorely missed and will be remembered as a great inspiration to all who knew him. He was a Good man. We love you dearly. Visitation will be held from 5-7 PM on Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2014 with Memorial service to follow at 7:00 PM at Highland Brethren in Christ Church, 7210 S. Jay Rd., West Milton, Ohio 45383. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of the donor's choice in memory of James. To view the Memorial Tribute Video, please click the link: http://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/8H6PLYZ437LNGWRJ