William Howard Rugo, age 95, of River Falls passed away on Sunday, August 22, 2021 at Comforts of Home in River Falls. He was born August 3, 1926 to Peter and Helen (Pittman) Rugo in St. Paul, MN. William was raised in Clear Lake, WI and in 1946 went into the Army/Air Force. He was stationed in England for 3 years. On February 9, 1957 in St. Paul, MN, he married Genevieve Hovde and to this union the couple was blessed with children, Seth and Jenelle. Bill worked as an Operating Engineer at UWRF heating plant and served as a St. Croix County Sheriff Deputy for 10 years. He was known for his kind heart. He enjoyed time with his family, traveling and hosting international students from 38 different countries. Bill is preceded by his parents, Peter and Helen and his brother, Jack. He is survived by his wife, Genevieve; children, Seth and Jenelle; grandchildren, Joseph and Samantha; brothers, Bob and Tom; sister, Mary Kay; many nieces and nephews. A funeral service was held on Tuesday, August 31, 2021 at 11:00 am at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services (805 E Division St.) in River Falls. Visitation was held on Monday, August 30th from 5-7 pm at Bakken-Young and also on Tuesday from 10-11 am before the service. Interment was in Martell Methodist Cemetery with military honors provided by the American Legion Post #121 of River Falls. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.
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(715) 243-5252 |
River Falls:
(715) 425-8788
6 Comments
Beloved uncle Bill, our hearts were sadden by the news of your passing. We deeply regret for not being able visit you and let you know once again how much we love you, but none the less we’re deeply honored and Blessed to have you in our lives and the love, teachings and afection you shared with us. You will be missed; May God Bless your soul and rest in peace.
To our dearest family: Aunt Jenny; Seth, Nelly, Joseph and Sammy, please receive our most sincere condolences and love in this difficult times; we love you very much.
My sincere condolences to Genevieve and family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
I will never forget all the attentions and displays of affection that Genevieve and Bill had with me during my exchange at UWRF (August 85 – May 86). Bill always behaved like a protective father and excellent friend, he will always be in my prayers. My sincere condolences to Genevieve , children and grandchildren. Sincerely Gerardo
Bill was, without a doubt, one of the kindest men we have known in our sixty years living in River Falls. We will not forget his calm, generous, loving nature..
Sincerest Regards,
After knowing the take over of Bill to his new destiny, my inmediate reaction was to ask to Lorena, my younger dougther who gave me the sade notice, if she ever had thought of a person with whom she would feel wholly confortable and safe, a person who, she were totally secure, that would take care of her when she were sleeping, and without waiting she would said anything, simplely because I was talking to myself, I respond: that person was Bill Rugo, a marvelous human being who always was willing to bring in his friendship and offer his open hands to help anyone free of any conditions. His eternal smile and his way to embrace us with his long arms were the keys for open our minds and our hearts to other american people. I thanks God the opportunity to have known and enjoyed Bill’s bonhomie, but also of Genevive, Genelle y their family. Finally, I am not too sad at all, because I am pretty sure that Bill is in heaven, and he is a prominent staff member of the reception committee.
So many memories and lovely moments, shared and enjoyed. Forever grateful for all the kindness received during our time in River Falls. Bill you will always have a special place in my heart. Jenny, Janelle and Seth, big hugs and strength. You are my family in so many ways I can’t even explain. Love you lots xx
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