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Edwin David Ruffing

Obituaries | The Tube City Almanac | January 26, 2022

Edwin David Ruffing, 77 of Versailles, passed away Monday, January 24, 2022. He is enjoying the "High Life" (again). Son of the late William L. and Elizabeth "Betty" (Fleckenstien) Ruffing. Ed grew up along Route 48 in Boston. That was where his strong work ethic began, working in his family's farm. While attending Glassport High School, he set bowling pins in McKeesport, often walking both to and from in all weather. After graduation, Ed began working in the Steel Industry as a crane operator among many other positions at both National Tube and Tygart Steel until having to choose one mill. It was at Tygart that Ed became union president. It was at this time he also began working as a laborer and apprentice for masonry. He found this to be his true passion. He loved to build and create with brick, block, stone or concrete. His numerous masonry works can be found not only locally but in other states as well. He "lived to work and worked to live," always taking pride in what he created. Ed always said, "I'll be gone but my work lives forever." Homes, garages, apartments, businesses, you name it-he built it and loved doing it. In spite of the physical demands he continued to work. Ed's other passion was traveling. His fun free spirit led him hitchhiking across the states, while young, and there weren't many he missed. Although he hunted the mountains of Colorado and Pennsylvania, it was the ocean that held his heart. He loved vacations in Florida, especially the Florida Keys, and Key West with Amy and his dogs, Snuggles and Cocoa.

He is survived by his son, Jeffrey (Ronda) Ruffing, and daughter, Carrie (Keith) Trimpey, along with 9 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Brothers, Jerry (Maureen) Ruffing, Paul (Shari) Ruffing, and Ken (Lisa) Ruffing and sister-in-law, JoAnn Ruffing of Greenock. Also numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and Aunt Anna Marie. By his side for 33 years, his "Bride" Amy Barnes will always cherish his drive, devotion and motivation to "always do the best possible - you are your own legacy." Anyone who knew him had to admire that of him. Ed loved to tell stories of his life and everyone has at least one that comes to memory. A friend once said if anyone deserves a movie of his life - it was Ed and the movie will be an action packed comedy, full of humor, crazy antics, daredevil feats and a touch of violence. Ed was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Ruffing. He touched so many lives with his humor, kindness, compassion and proud work ethic. Friends are welcome Saturday, January 29, 2022 from 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm at the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc. 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, director. A Memorial Service will take place in the funeral home chapel at 4:00 pm with Deacon Dale DiSantos officiating. He will be dearly missed. May he rest in peace - we love you Ed! Condolences may be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com

Originally published January 26, 2022.

Other deaths:
"Edward P. Wojdyla" || "David A. Lycett Jr."