William Spencer Rugg

1928-2020

William “Bill” Rugg of Upland, California headed off for bluer skies on December 10, 2020. He lived his life to the fullest and was decorating for the holidays when he fell and hit his head, resulting in his death.

Bill was a role model to many and a friend to all. He was an Eagle Scout, a devoted son, a loving husband, a motivating force as a father, and a devoted member of his community. He inspired the desire to be better, to find the way to be your best, no matter the challenge. Never one to be idle, he spent his time away from work in the pursuit of adventure for himself and his family: rebuilding a mobile home for family vacations on Lake Havasu where the days were spent dragging kids around the lake on water skis; getting his pilot’s license and then flying with Peg to Catalina for lunch or up north to visit his kids in college; exploring the Gulf of California with his family in tow to build a home on the coast and revel in the wildness of Baja, these examples are a few of the many pursuits that Bill embarked upon in his nearly 93 years. He loved deeply and cared about his extended family in real and substantial ways that lifted spirits and created joy. An avid carpenter and builder, he loved the smell of sawdust and the satisfaction of creating something from wood with his hands. Up to his last he was sanding and creating with wood.

Bill was born in Upland on January 27, 1928 to William F. and Carmen G. Rugg. He attended Chaffey High School, graduating in 1946. He then attended Pomona College and graduated in 1950 with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics. After college, Bill served with the 23rd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division of the U. S. Army in Korea, 1951-1952, reaching the rank of Sergeant. Citations awarded to him were the Combat Infantry Badge, United Nations Service Medal and the Korean Service Medal with two battle stars. He was proud to serve his country and was a great patriot.

Rugg Lumber Company, started by Bill’s dad in 1927, was the center of Bill’s adult working life. He owned and managed the lumber yard from 1952 – 1996. As an involved member of his community, Bill always stepped up to help others. He was a lifelong member and past president of the Upland Rotary Club, member and past president of the Upland Chamber of Commerce, member and past president of the Upland School District Board of Trustees, a Reserve Deputy with the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Aero Squadron, and a member of the San Antonio Community Hospital Board of Trustees.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife of 46 years, Margaret L. (Peg) Rugg. He is survived by his three children; Steven W. Rugg (Holly Laird) of Redwood Valley, CA, Linda G. Rugg (Jerry Lynk) of Soquel, CA and Frederick T. Rugg (Sherrill) of Upland, CA; his three grandchildren, Robert, Hannah Francis-Miller (Garett) and Katee; and two great-grandchildren, Nirvena and Sariah. He was the finest example of a father and grandfather with his excellent sense of humor, love of adventure, scrupulous integrity and deep love of them all.

He spent his last 20 years in the loving company of Patricia M. Lloyd. Life was good! His zest for life was felt by all who knew him and he lived his life to its fullest measure.

A celebration of his life will be scheduled sometime in 2021 when it is safe to gather again. To leave condolences, stories and pictures of Bill, please go to:

stonefuneralhomeupland.com and look for his name.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to:

San Antonio Hospital Foundation

999 San Bernardino Road

Upland Ca 91786

(909) 920-4962

SARH.org/Gift Giving