George W. Ruff

George W. Ruff, 88, of Hammond passed away 11:53 p.m. Monday, May 18, 2020 at his home surrounded by family.

Private family services will be held at McMullin-Young Funeral Home, Lovington. Burial will be in Keller Cemetery, Lovington, with Military Rites by the Lovington American Legion Post #429. Memorials may be made to the St. Michael Catholic Church in Bement or to the Lovington Volunteer Ambulance Service.

George was born on February 22, 1932, to Clarence L. “Roy” and Clara Marie (Patterson) Ruff in Dalton City. He married Carolyn Woodard on October 6, 1951, at St. Isidore Catholic Church, Bethany.

George served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict. He worked for the Wabash Railroad in the police department, working his way up to Chief of Police for the Norfolk and Southern Railroad and retired in 1987. George was a charter member of the Decatur EAA Chapter 274.

George’s favorite past time was playing cards and dominos with friends and family. He was an avid Cardinals and Illinois basketball fan.

George is survived by his wife of 68 years, Carolyn; sons, Kenny (Kathy) Ruff of Lovington, Richard (Sherry) Ruff of Excelsior Springs, MO, and David (Cheri) Ruff of Bement; daughters, Cheryl (Don) Horne of Decatur and Jill (Brent) Bishop of Excelsior Springs, MO. He also leaves behind 14 grandkids and 18 great-grandkids.

George was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Cecil and his sister Wanda.

The family would like to thank Harbor Light Hospice, Community Health Care and all involved who helped fulfill his final wishes.

Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mcmullinyoung.com