Curtis Dean Ruff

Curtis D. Ruff, 83 years old, passed away peacefully at his home on January 08, 2016. He was born on July 23, 1932 in Old Mobeetie, Texas, to Bertha Vititow and John Ruff. He was the next to youngest of seven children. He is survived by one brother, C.A. Ruff and his wife Nadine, of Plainview, Texas.

When he was 17, Curtis joined the Army and served in Korea. He was a Purple Heart veteran of that war. After his release from the service, Curtis followed his cousin, Joe Ruff to Lippert’s Business College in Plainview, Texas, where he became a certified shorthand reporter. During his time at Lippert’s, Curtis met and married Frances Wilson.

After school, and a short stint as a reporter in Burke, South Dakota, Curtis and Frances settled in Lubbock, Texas, where he was the official court reporter for the 137th District Court, under Judge Bean. Then, in the early 60’s, Curtis opened his own freelance firm, Curtis D. Ruff & Associates, Certified Shorthand Reporters. This business thrived in his hands for 50-years.

Curtis is survived by his wife of 61 years, Frances Wilson Ruff; daughters, Jo Dene Kizziah and husband Keith, Cindy Ruff and her husband Dan Miller; grandchildren, Jeremiah Teutsch, Daniel Kizziah and his wife Jennifer, Molly Kizziah, Dennis Teutsch and his wife Marquaie, Kimberly Bocell and her husband Bo; great grandchildren, Adelaide Kathleen Kizziah, Jay and Reid Bocell and many close friends he considered family.

In lieu of customary remembrances, the family suggests donations made in his name to Hospice of Lubbock (www.hospiceoflubbock.org). Online condolences may be offered at: www.resthavenfuneralhome.com.