Robert W. Ruggieri

Robert William Ruggieri, of Eatontown, NJ, passed away on November 12, 2024. Bob will be remembered for his intellect and ability to analyze complex situations, his passion to achieve and serve, his ability to laugh at himself and life generally, and his devotion to friends and family. Most of all, he will be remembered for his love of his family: his wife Lori (whom he loved so much he married her twice), his children Emily and Bill, and his grandchildren by Emily and Bob’s son-in-law Bob Clayton, Zachary and Jacob. Bob was very active in raising Emily and Bill, often putting work aside to assist at their activities, because they were always his first priority. And he was trying to do the same now with Zach and Jake. Bob was born in Jersey City on June 27, 1950, to William and Ann Ruggieri, and was always very happy and proud to have grown up there. He lived in Sacred Heart parish attending its grammar school, and then attended St. Peter’s Preparatory School, before heading off to Massachusetts to attend and graduate from the College of the Holy Cross. Along with other things, these all helped develop in Bob a deep belief in the Catholic faith. And in particular his Jesuit education of 8 years had a profound influence on his value system, especially the belief that service to others is critical to living a good life. While at Prep and HC, Bob made many great friends through his involvement in extra-curricular activities. Those friends remained important throughout his life. After college, he returned home and went to work in computer programming in Manhattan. In 1979, Bob made the decision to change careers, and attended Seton Hall School of Law, graduating with honors. He worked as a lawyer for the rest of his life, based in Monmouth County. Bob specialized in providing analysis of complex litigation files for other attorneys and in research and writing; he was highly regarded by his colleagues and courts for his abilities. He was the chief brief writer in the world-famous surrogate parenting case, In re Baby M. Bob also was involved in writing briefs in many other significant appellate matters dealing with a wide range of legal issues. Besides family and work, one of Bob’s most important endeavors was his involvement in the Boy Scout program. Having been a Scout as a youth, and always believing its values greatly influenced him and that he should pay that forward, he became active as an adult leader once Billy became a Cub Scout. Bob served as a key leader of Bill’s pack and troop, eventually help guide a number of the Scouts (including Bill) to achieve Eagle. Also, he became very active at Patriots’ Path Council, particularly with the advancement and adult training programs. For his contributions, Bob was recognized with the District Award of Merit. Besides his immediate family, Bob is survived by his sister Janet and husband Fred Wraga. The family asks those inclined to remember Bob to make a contribution to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center or to your own favorite charity.

Robert W. Ruggieri

June 27, 1950 - November 12, 2024