HOWARD RUGGLES

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Howard Linsey Ruggles announce his sudden passing at home on Friday, October 20th, 2023. Age 90 years.

Beloved husband of Sharon Ruggles (Gregoire). Loving father of Lauri (Doug), Todd (Petra), Mark (Sandra), Melody, and Wendy (Phil). Cherished grandpa of Hailey, Lindsay, Jacob, Jessica, Zachary, Victoria, Jordan, Travis, Simon, Kyra, and Rylan. Great grandpa of Leia, Harrison, Joani, Birdie, and Cullen. Fondly remembered by his nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Born and raised in Nova Scotia, Howard moved to London, Ontario at the age of 16 to work at Midway Farms. He began driving house trailers from London, Ontario to Calgary, Alberta, often leaving him to hitchhike over 3,000 kilometers back home to London. Howard began working underground in the Copper Cliff Mines, and then as a police officer in Copper Cliff for 15 years. When Howard was on a long stretch of days off as an officer, he would build docks and cottages. Howard opened Ruggles Marine in Parry Sound, and after retiring from the police force, he started Ruggles Construction which evolved into Incon Construction. After dedicating himself to a lifetime of hard work, Howard retired in 1998. Howard enjoyed golfing, travelling, coffee time with friends, wood working, and building furniture for his family to enjoy. He was the president of Rotary Club, a longtime member of the Parry Sound Chamber of Commerce, and also involved with ‘LACAC’ (Local Architectural Conservation Advisory Committees).

Howard lived a full life; he always found a way to balance his busy work schedule with his home life. He was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and a friend to many. Howard will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

As was Howard’s wish, cremation has taken place. A private graveside service and interment will be held at Foley Memorial Cemetery.

As expressions of sympathy, donations to the West Parry Sound Health Centre Foundation, Alzheimer Society Muskoka, or the charity of your choice would be appreciated.

Condolences


So very sorry to hear of Howard's passing and our thoughts are with Sharon and Howard's family.

-Kent Gregoire

Sad to hear of Uncle Howards passing. In his later years, as we all do his looks changed. The last time he was home, he look so much like Dad, Walter. I was always so proud to say my Uncle Howard has a great Construction business. A boy from Nova Scotia off the North Mountain did very well for himself and his family. Dad always said that Howard was great with a hammer and build Nanny a Wagon House to put her wagon in for her horse to take her to town. Take Care ,Love your cousin Carol

-Carol & Mark Kennedy

Sad news ! Howard was a great guy , he will be missed ! Condolences to the family.

-Ben Pelkinen

Sad to hear. Long time friend. Worked together for many years.

-Jerry Holland

Sorry to hear of Uncle Howard's passing. Having grown up in Parry Sound and moving to Nova Scotia or coming home as they all called it. I can see the reasons you love both places. One of my first jobs was a summer job with the construction company and I remember it fondly. I miss him along with all of those who have left before him. Last I saw him was by chance at a restaurant in Cambridge. He and Sharon were home for a visit. I send along condolences to Sharon and all my cousins. It has been along time but none the less still thinking of you all.

-Craig Ruggles

I just heard this sad news. I knew of Mr. Ruggles from growing up on the next street, but only got to know at the famous “3:00 meeting” when I went to Timmie’s with my Dad. Mr. Ruggles was great to talk to, as he had many stories and was very curious about many things. The 3:00 meeting went on for many years, and I treasured every time I was in town and could join them. It is fitting that they all passed within a short time of each other. My condolences to his family and friends.

-Scott Hilts