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Posted by Tom Kelly:
Art died leaving a wife and children. I saw the obituary in the Tucson newspaper in the past 5-7 years. Art played football and wrestled at Palo Verde. I believe he worked for the City of Tucson.
Arthur James Ruff
Arthur James Ruff age 57, passed away on August 12, 2006. He was a native Tucsonan born on October 3, 1948. He graduated from Palo Verde High School, 1966. He attended the University of Arizona receiving his degree in Public Administration. He also was a proud veteran who served in the United States Marine Corp. He was a dedicated 30 year employee of Pima County, beginning his career as an animal control officer and moved through various ranks until lastly he was head of the administrative support services division. He recently retired in February of 2006. He enjoyed life to the fullest. His greatest joy was his children, Alex and Danielle, who he loved with all of his heart. As a devoted dad, he spent countless hours as their coach and mentor. He was very proud of both their athletic and academic accomplishments. He loved people! He captivated you with his infectious laugh and outlandish sense of humor. Upon his retirement, he was able to spend time enjoying his passions for the Los Angeles Angels, U of A athletics , and most importantly, GOLF! Preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Julia Ruff. Survived by his children, Alex and Danielle; his children's mother, Geri; his brother, Richard and his children, Richard, Christopher and Nicholas; his sister, Pat and her children, Stacy and Brent. He also leaves behind many other cherished family and friends. He will be greatly missed
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Thomas Kelly
My earliest memories of Art were when we were on the Freshman fooball team at Palo Verde. The practices were in August and it was hotter than the hinges of hell. We were also on the wrestling team.
I will never forget the day Art had to wrestle Matt Foley from Pueblo High in the 180 Lbs. class. Matt looked like a statue of a greek god. A very scary opponent!! We talked Art into smacking Matt in the face to show he wasn't afraid. Well, long story short, the face smack pissed Matt off, so he picked up poor Art, threw him to the mat and pinned him about 30 seconds into the match. It was brutal. Art was helped off the mat and looked like death warmed over. We had a lot of laughs about that match.
Earlier that year, I was playing pulling guard in a game against Pueblo High School and Matt Foley was a linebacker. I blind sided Foley, knee high at full speed and he just groaned and ran over me. He was a monster!!
After High School, I saw Art from time to time but did not have a lot of contact.
Art was a great guy and I always smile when his name comes up remembering the Matt Foley wrestling match.
R.I.P. Art. You are missed.
Sandi Seiler (Harrington)
Art was a super guy! Always fun to be around and also a great community leader! We miss you Art!
Daniel Edward White
Art -- what a great guy!! I can see his smile and remember his happy and friendly nature.
My recollection of Art is also football related just like Tom Kelly's -- but not high school football. Art was a key lineman on the Mary Naylor Jr High "flag" football team. I think he lined up next to my long time elementary school buddy Bill Cox. I played Tallback on the Naylor football team and I REALLY relied heavily on Art and Bill, and the other great linemen --- to BLOCK those goons trying to get through the line to get my flag and flatten me in the process. Art always held his ground and protected me!! He paid for it hard a few times and he would come into the huddle...dragging a little...not much... for the next play to be called ...huffying and puffing....but a gleam in his eye and a little smile on his face...ready. I think that is how Art lived his life --- rough and ready -- get'n it done --- but with a kind heart and always a smile and kind word to share with others.
Thanks for the fond memories and good times Art.
Rest in Peace now my dear friend -- thanks for the blocks-- and the good memories!!!