Richard H. Ruff, Sr.

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Richard H. Ruff, Sr. on Friday, October 2, 2026 after a lengthy and debilitating battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Richard was a loving husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, brother and the beloved husband of Marilyn (Thibeault) Ruff for over 26 years.

Born on August 28, 1938 in Hartford, Richard was the son of the late Joseph & Emma (Lauritzen) Ruff.

Richard was employed by Northeast Utilities in Berlin, CT. Lastly, he retired from Yankee Gas in Meriden, CT in 2000. Richard had a true passion for NASCAR and loved the excitement of racing. During the 1960s, he raced at Plainville Stadium, where he became known by his racing name, “Mr. Buttons.”

In addition to his wife Marilyn, Richard leaves four sons and their families, Rich, Jr., Joseph Timothy, William and James, cherished grandchildren, Jessica, Melissa, Bonnie, Matthew, Daniel and Chelsea and several great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two stepchildren, Todd Cormier and Amy Cormier and one step-grandchild, Olivia Cormier.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Richard’s memory may be made The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, P.O. Box 5014 Hagerstown, MD 21741, (https://www.michaeljfox.org/).

"Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day, unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, and very dear."

Always and forever, we will love you.

A memorial service will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 10, 2026 at the Plantsville Funeral Home, 975 S. Main St., Plantsville. Calling hours will be held prior to the service from 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at St. Thomas Cemetery, Southington. For online condolences and directions, please visit www.plantsvillefuneralhome.com