Jerry Stephen Ruckman

Jerry Stephen Ruckman, age 70, passed away on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, while a resident at the Legacy of North Augusta.  
     He was the son of the late Reginald and Carrie Via Ruckman. Jerry dedicated 32 years of his life to Shenandoah Valley Electric, where he poured his dedication and expertise into his work. Beyond his professional life, Jerry found joy and solace in his passions.
     An avid sportsman, Jerry embraced the competitive spirit of racquetball, demonstrating his agility and strength on the court. However, it was on the green fairways where he found his true sanctuary. Jerry's love for golf wasn't just about the game; it was about the camaraderie, the challenge, and the beauty of the sport.
     Jerry had a love for music.  In 1978 Jerry, along with Brad Clatterbuck created Eastwind, a duo originally called Crossfire. Jerry played harmonica and guitar and provided vocals, while both were proficient songwriters.   
     Yet, amidst his love for sports and music, Jerry's greatest joy came from his family. He cherished his wife, children, and grandchildren, finding immense pride and happiness in their accomplishments and milestones. His love for life was contagious, his laughter infectious, and his presence a beacon of warmth and kindness.  
     Jerry will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, dedication, and zest for life will forever echo in the hearts of those he leaves behind, knowing he was always “Living the Dream”.
     Jerry was preceded in death by a sister, Patty Burruss and a brother, Randy Ruckman 
     Jerry is survived by his wife, Wanda Yvonne Stevens; daughter, Sarah Ruckman and husband, Nat McGill and daughters, Zoe and Rowan; son, Matt Ruckman and wife, McKenzie and daughters, Josie and Mila; step-daughter, Ashley O’Roark and Justin Nuckoles and son, Wickham and daughter, Levi; step-son, Garin O’Roark and wife, Kristin Campbell and sons, Liam and Jaiden and daughter, Parker.    
     He is also survived by brothers and sisters, Mike and Becky Ruckman, Harrisonburg, Darrell and Leslie Ruckman, Manassas, Beverly and Steve Cash, Staunton, Gary Ruckman, Harrisonburg, Danny and Narda Ruckman, Texas, Regina Ruckman, Maryland, brother-in law, Chuck Burruss, Harrisonburg and sister-in-law, Debbie Ruckman, Florida and numerous nephews and nieces. 
     A Memorial Service to celebrate Jerry’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 27, 2024 in the Coffman Funeral Home Chapel.
     In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests all memorial contributions be made, in Jerry's honor to the Memory Care at the Legacy of North Augusta, 1410A North Augusta, Staunton, VA 24401.
     The family is requesting privacy at this time.
     Coffman Funeral Home and Crematory, 230 Frontier Drive, Staunton has been entrusted with arrangements.