Robert E. "Bob" Ruff, 72, Springfield, passed away Thursday, November 6, 2014 in Mercy Hospital. He was born July 2, 1942 in Wheeler, Texas, the son of Charlie Edwin and Anja Oleta Ruff. Bob is survived by his loving wife of over 50 years, Yvonne Ruff and blessed with three sons and their wives, Troy Lee and Becky Ruff, Charlie Todd and Karen Ruff and Robert Paul and Terry Ruff; grandchildren, Troy Lee Ruff, Jr. and his wife Kalee, Cory L. Jones, Robert James Ruff and his wife Areli, Sydni Alese Lambert and her husband David, Sara Rachelle Ruff, Allyson Lanae Leonard and her husband, Anthony, Landan Robert Ruff, Dylan Burnell and Jared Burnell; great-grandchildren, Dylan Ruff, Collin Ruff, Bentley Jones, Brooks Jones, Nathalia Ruff, Ryan Ruff, Kylee Ruff, Kaiden Lambert and Jolie Lambert; one sister, Charlene Boissenet and her husband, Paul; niece, Paulette Watkins and her husband, Steve; nephew, Charlie Paul Boissenet; and his mother-in-law, Marie "Mama" Harbert. Bob will be remembered most for his love for Jesus Christ and the many people he won to The Lord. He loved learning and studying his Bible. He was saved July 7th 1968 at 8:27 p.m. at Central Baptist Church in Victoria Texas and was baptized July 14, 1968. His greatest joy was his family and the time he spent with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He especially loved and treasured time spent watching the Dallas Cowboys with his sons. He enjoyed the Dallas Cowboys, Texas Longhorns, history, the Old West, and the years he spent in his woodworking shop. Bob was the Director of Safety and Security at St. John's/Mercy Hospital for 33 years before his retirement. He was also responsible for workers compensation, risk management, emergency preparedness and the mentorship of numerous young professionals. Bob also served on the board for St. John's Credit Union. His accomplishments are vast and he touched so many people throughout his life personally and professionally. His education includes: Graduate Degree in Theology from BBC; BA in Business Administration and Associate of Arts from Columbia College; completed his diploma in accounting from Draughon Business College; completed his diploma from Investigation and Security Training School; and was certified as a Hazard Control Manager. In addition, he received numerous safety and security awards and certificates as well as being recognized for his dedication and loyal years of service. He is a veteran who proudly served the US Navy aboard the USS Ranger, Air Craft Carrier. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, November 10, 2014 in Seminole Baptist Temple under the direction of Gorman-Scharpf Brentwood Chapel. Burial with full military honors will follow in Maple Park Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. Sunday in the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 3322 South Campbell, Suite G, Springfield, MO 65807.
