Victor Paul Rukab

Victor was born in Ramallah, Palestine on January 10, 1948. His family immigrated to the United States in 1960 and settled in Jacksonville, Florida. After graduating from Robert E. Lee High School, Victor attended Lake City Junior College.

In 1968, Victor began serving in the U.S. Army, stationed at Fort Myer, Virginia. He was selected for the Honor Guard and served at President Richard Nixon’s first inauguration in 1969. Following his military service, Victor began his career as an entrepreneur. Over the years he opened many successful restaurants and businesses, including Venny’s Italian Restaurant on Old Baymeadows Road, and most recently, he owned B&B Restaurant Equipment.

Victor was a loving and caring family man, with a calm disposition and a gentle soul. He had a love for cooking. Whether a small gathering or tailgating for the Gator games, Victor took great pleasure in preparing a big feast for family and friends. He also had a passion for gardening and beamed when his flowers were in bloom. Victor’s pride was in his grandchildren, and he cherished the time spent with them. He was a kind and generous friend, always willing to lend a helping hand or host poker nights with the guys. Another favorite pastime was challenging his siblings to a game of Rummy.

Victor was predeceased by his parents, Boulus and Salwa Rukab. He is survived by two sons

Victor (Lena) and Mark (Tracy), and six grandchildren Brooke, Joshua (Emilee), Taylor,

Stella, Stevie and Vivian. He was expecting his first great-grandchild in November. He also

leaves behind his five siblings Basem Rukab, Nabil (Ghada) Rukab, Rita (Charlie) Harb,

Renda (Bill) Ajluni and Rocky (Rana) Rukab, and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

The family will hold a visitation on Thursday, July 18, 2024 from 5-6pm at Corey-Kerlin Funeral Home, 940 Cesery Blvd., Jacksonville 32211, with the Trisagion Service immediately following with the V. Rev. Archpriest Dr. Kamal Al-Rahil presiding. A private burial ceremony with military funeral honors will be held on a later date.