Robert ‘Bob’ Benton Ruckman

Posted

(June 30, 1925 - Oct. 22, 2016)

Bob Ruckman, 91, died peacefully in Medford, Oregon.

Bob was born to John and Dorothea Ruckman on June 30, 1925, in Aberdeen, South Dakota. After graduating high school he joined the Navy and soon after received an appointment to West Point Military Academy. He then attended Cornell University and the University of Colorado Boulder.

While in Denver Bob married his wife of 62 years Janice Soliday. After receiving a degree in marketing he was employed by Pan American Petroleum (Amoco). They lived in several states including Colorado, North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming and Texas.

They lived in Powell from 1964 until 1968 where Bob was instrumental in the installation and utilization of the first computer in Elk Basin. He then transferred to England, Libya and Egypt.

After returning to the United States they lived in Houston, Texas, North Dakota and Wyoming. Bob and Jan retired to Las Vegas and later to Medford.

Bob was a member of the American Legion and served as chaplain and post commander in New Town, North Dakota. He was also a lifelong Elks Club member.

Bob had a beautiful singing voice and when as a member of the West Point Glee Club, sang for President Harry S. Truman at the White House in Washington, D.C. He sang in many civic and church choirs. Bob also enjoyed playing cards, reading, bird hunting and fishing. While overseas he and Jan enjoyed traveling to other countries.

Bob was a devout Lutheran and served as president and on the council at Hope Lutheran Church in Powell.

Bob was preceded in death by his wife Jan, and sisters Gladys, Dorothea and Joey and brothers Frank and George.

He is survived by his brother John; his children Bob C. (Brenda) Ruckman of Powell, Thea (Dallas) Bennett of Powell and Dave (Audrey) Ruckman of Medford, Oregon. He is also survived by grandchildren Gianna (Andy) Miller, Brandon (Kim) Ruckman, Deli Frantzen, Mariah (Jamey) Jessen, and Brianna (Aaron) Waltman; and 12 great-grandchildren.

Cremation has taken place and interment will be at the Eagle Point National Cemetery in Eagle Point, Oregon. A memorial is planned for a later date in Powell.

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