RICHARD RUCANO

July 16, 1928 - April 24, 2012
MISHAWAKA - Richard Rucano, 83, of Mishawaka, IN passed away on Tuesday, April 24, 2012 at the Hospice House in South Bend, surrounded by his loving family. Richard was born in South Bend, IN on July 16, 1928 to the late Pasquale and Angelina (Nesci) Rucano. On September 23, 1950, Richard married the former Rita Catanzarite in St. Monica Catholic Church in Mishawaka, IN.

He graduated from South Bend Central High School and served in the United States Army during WW II in the Quarter Masters Corps, where he was stationed in Japan.

He is survived by his loving wife, Rita Rucano of Mishawaka and his four children, Marie Rucano of Mishawaka, Tony (Stephanie) Rucano of Granger, Richard (Dusty) Rucano of Mishawaka and Francine (Matt) Riley of Mishawaka. He is also leaving behind five grandchildren, Sarah, Matthew, Brandon, Camille and Christopher. Also surviving is his sister, Rose Van De Walle of South Bend, along with several nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.

Richard is preceded in death by his brothers, Pete, Eugene, John and Pat Rucano, all from South Bend.

Richard Rucano was employed for 25 years at Normain Heights Grocery Store, the family owned business, and 18 years at Elcona Foods in Elkhart. Richard was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council #5570 and the Maria Diloreto Society of Mishawaka, along with the VFW Post #360, where he was a member of the Drill Team which won State Titles two years in a row. Among Dick's interests were of course his first love, spending time with his family. His grandchildren were the love of his life and always made his face light up. Not only was he a wonderful Husband, Father, and Grandfather; he was also friend to everyone and loved by everyone. He was the person who never had anything but a kind word for everyone. Also among his interests were sports; he was a huge Kentucky fan and loved the Yankees. He was always ready for a game of horseshoes. He loved family outings and swimming and all his trips to Florida with the family. He will be remembered and dearly missed by everyone. His beautiful smile will remain in our hearts forever.

A special thank you goes to his family doctor, Dr. John Powell and his staff, who provided Richard with constant care and service; and additional thank yous to all the ladies who cared for him at home: Nell, Karen, Amber, Kristi, Michelle and Theresa.

Above all, a special thank you to daughter-in-law Dusty for her care on medicines and overseeing everything.

Thanks most of all to his daughter Francine who, for the last six months, stayed by his side 24 hours a day, to love him, take care of him and always keep his spirits high. Thank you for your greatest gift.

The family will receive friends on Friday, April 27th from 2-8 pm, with a Rosary to be recited at 4:00 pm, at the Bubb Funeral Chapel, 3910 N. Main St., Mishawaka. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 am with one hour visitation prior, on Saturday, April 28th at St Pius X Catholic Church, 52553 Fir Rd., Granger, IN. Entombment is to follow the service at Fairview Cemetery in Mishawaka.

Published by South Bend Tribune from Apr. 26 to Apr. 27, 2012

02/26/2023 EJS