Richard Edward Ruhe Jr.

Richard (Dick) Edward Ruhe, Jr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2025, in Escondido, California, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He was 81 years old.

Born on January 5, 1944, in Brooklyn, New York, Dick lived a life of purpose, honor, and service. He grew up in New York and Ohio, graduating from Massapequa High School in 1961. At just 17, he entered the US Coast Guard Academy, earning a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Engineering and beginning a 20-year military career marked by leadership and integrity.

As a decorated aviator, Dick piloted the HH-3F Pelican and HH-52 Seaguard helicopters and the HU-16 Albatross and HC-130 Hercules fixed-wing aircraft, dedicating his skills to search and rescue missions and humanitarian efforts. He rose to the rank of Commander, serving in Leadership & Management roles in his later years of service. Among his many honors were the Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation, the Air Medal Commendation, the Humanitarian Service Medal, the National Defense Unit Commendation, and the Expert Pistol Achievement Medal.

Dick was a lifelong learner, earning a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from the University of New Haven in 1975 and a Doctor of Education (EdD) degree from the George Washington University in 1988. After retiring from the Coast Guard, he built a second career as a renowned motivational speaker and consultant. He traveled the world, helping organizations and individuals unlock their potential. A Senior Consulting Partner with The Ken Blanchard Companies, Dick co-authored Know Can Do: Put Your Know-How into Action with Ken Blanchard and Paul Meyer.

Dick believed deeply in the power of humor. His quick wit, light spirit, and ability to make others laugh were trademarks of both his leadership style and his personal relationships. For him, humor wasn’t just a way to ease tension—it was a way to connect, inspire, and make life better for everyone around him.

Outside of his professional life, Dick was an avid athlete and runner. He competed in countless races, including the 2013 Boston Marathon (the year of the tragic bombing), where his courage and resilience were on full display. He also loved tennis, both as a player and as a coach. During his time at the US Coast Guard Academy, he proudly served as the head coach of the tennis team, mentoring young cadets and sharing his passion for the sport.

Above all else, Dick lived by the US Coast Guard motto: “Semper Paratus.” He was "Always Ready” to offer a helping hand, pull over and help a stranger, and show up for a friend when it mattered. His humility, humor, warmth, and unwavering kindness touched countless lives.

He is survived by Catherine (Cathy) Drexler Ruhe, his loving wife of nearly 59 years; his three sons: Richard Edward Ruhe, III (wife-Tanya Jones Ruhe), Michael John Ruhe (wife-Sharlyn Ravago Ruhe), and Christopher Matthew Ruhe (wife-Christina Burns Ruhe); and his cherished grandchildren: Sarah Ruhe, Maya Ruhe, Matthew Ruhe, Connor Ruhe, and Richard Edward Ruhe, IV.

Dick is also survived by his siblings Susan Ruhe Drexler, Nancy Ruhe Gesuelle, Mary Ruhe Leonard, and Joy Ruhe; and his brother-in-law and life-long best friend, Charles Drexler.

A funeral Mass will be held on Monday, May 12, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Timothy Catholic Parish (2960 Canyon Rd, Escondido, CA 92025), followed by a reception in the church hall. A military burial will take place the same day at 2:00 p.m. at Miramar National Cemetery (5795 Nobel Dr, San Diego, CA 92122).

In honoring Dick’s memory, the family encourages acts of kindness in his spirit—lend a hand, help a stranger, be there when it counts. And above all, don’t forget to laugh.