Barbara Ruck

On February 14, Barbara Ruck passed away at her home of 90 years, surrounded by her family. She remained in good spirits until the end, buoyed by well-wishes and affection of family and friends.

A lifelong San Franciscan, Barbara was a gracious and welcoming soul, a splendid and adventurous chef – an evening at her table was a treat, and her warmth came through in every encounter. And her Christmas Cookies (and toffee!) were always eagerly anticipated.

She met William (Bill) Ruck and, after a courtship featuring traditional jazz at Earthquake McGoon’s, they married in 1949 and raised their son William and daughter Christine. Bill’s work took them to Italy for a year, where Barbara’s love of cooking and passion for travel blossomed. After the children were grown, Barbara and Bill travelled the world until his death in 1998. Barbara continued to travel the US with Christine for years and also spent time at the family cabin in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

A member of St. Cecilia’s Church, she took part in parish activities including League of the Sacred Heart and Collins Center. She enjoyed live theater, trying new restaurants, and above all, family gatherings.

Barbara is survived by Christine, William, daughterin-law Siobhan Ruck, and generations of Lippis, Sheas and Korns. The family is grateful to all who provided comfort in these past months. We thank Hospice by the Bay for their help to Christine during the last month.

We will have a celebration of Barbara’s life when we can gather safely again.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to: Sisters of The Holy Names P.O. Box 907, Los Gatos, CA 95031-0907 or: Sempervirens Fund 419 South San Antonio Road, Suite 211, Los Altos, CA 94022