Thomas W Ruscik

Thomas W. Ruscik, 75 of Bokeelia, Florida passed away peacefully with his wife at his side on March 20, 2024. Ruscik was born on December 10, 1948 to Phyllis June (nee Kline) and Walter S. Ruscik in Chicago, Illinois; both deceased. Ruscik is survived by his sisters Carol A. (Richard-deceased) Whitesell of Lake Barrington, Illinois; Phyllis (Joseph) Fitzgerald of Coos Bay, Oregon and Kimberly (Robert-deceased) Underwood of Oak Park, Illinois; many nieces and nephews across the United States; and his loving wife Donna Jo (nee Maxwell) of almost 36 years.

His family moved to Oak Park, Illinois and he graduated from River Forest High School in 1966. Shortly thereafter he began his career with NCR Corporation as an Apprentice. He was drafted into the United States Army on April 21, 1969 and proudly served as an MP during the Vietnam War. After serving, he rejoined NCR and worked his way into Management. In December 1987, he transferred with NCR and moved to Florida.

On July 23, 1988 he married the love of his life DJ and they made their home in Winter Springs, Florida. Tom and DJ started spending time in Bokeelia, Florida in January 1989. In January 2000 after 33 years with NCR and at the age of 50, he had an opportunity to retire and they moved permanently to Bokeelia. In 2002 he briefly rejoined NCR for two more years to complete 35 years of service.

He soon became very involved in the greater Pine Island community. He was a founding member and served as the second President of the Matlacha Mariners. He was a member of the Moose Lodge #1954, VFW #4353 and American Legion Post #136 all in St James City, Florida. He served as the Commander of the American Legion, the Treasurer of Sons of the Legion and Legion Riders. He and his wife were founding members of Legion Riders.

During his retirement, Tom and DJ enjoyed fishing, traveling, cruising, playing golf and riding their Goldwing across country, twice participating the Legion Riders Legacy Run. He was a true gentleman and enjoyed friendship, leadership and mentoring, was dedicated community and will be dearly missed by family and friends.

There will be a Celebration of Life on Saturday, April 27th beginning promptly at 11:00 am at the American Legion Post #136, 4106 Stringfellow Road, St James City, Florida. His ashes will be laid to rest in the Gulf of Mexico during a private service the following day. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Legion Post #136 Scholarship Program.