Robert Lee Ruple Sr.

Robert “Bob” Lee Ruple Sr., 77, passed away on July 21, 2023 in Summit, New Jersey. His battle with pulmonary fibrosis in recent years showed his courage in facing life’s challenges with a smile. Despite the pain and struggles, Bob remained hopeful and stayed strong until the end.

Bob was born to Nora and Bob Lee Ruple on May 13th, 1946 in Bayonne, NJ. He was a graduate of New Brunswick High School and attended both Seton Hall University and Rutgers University. Bob’s professional experience spanned 40 years working in the field of Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs at various pharmaceutical companies including Plymouth Printing Co., Johnson & Johnson, Ortho Pharmaceuticals and ImClone.

Bob was a long-time resident of Cranford, New Jersey, where he and his family were part of the St. Michael’s Church community for many years. He was an avid fan of Rutgers Athletics and was a prominent figure at many tailgates and games! After retirement, Bob became a parishioner of St. James the Apostle Church of Springfield and an active member of the Summit Elks Club. He most enjoyed quality time spent with the love of his life, Catherine, his five sons and his extended family members (including numerous cats!), who were all very special to him.

Bob is survived by his wife of 52 years, Catherine; five sons and their wives, Robert (Sandra), Matthew (Liza), David (Erin), Andrew (Cristina) and Michael (Laura); eight grandchildren, Sean, Anna, Kevin, Maya, Meredith, Matthew, Shanna and Allisen, and his sister, Judy North. He was preceded in death by his parents, Nora and Bob Lee Ruple, and his in-laws, Eileen and David Montgomery.

Bob was a devoted husband, an exemplary father, an adored grandfather, a cherished

brother-in-law to Catherine’s four brothers and their wives, and a favored uncle to many nieces and nephews. He will be dearly missed by all of his family, who meant everything to him.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 27, 2023 from 4 to 8 PM at Higgins and Bonner Echo Lake funeral home, 582 Springfield Ave., Westfield. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, July 28, 2023 at 10 AM at St. James the Apostle RC Church in Springfield.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation in Bob’s name at: https://fundraise.givesmart.com/vf/PFFTribute/RobertLRuple