Clifford R. Ruff

Mr. Clifford R. Ruff, 94, has passed away to his eternal reward Monday, December 7, 2020, at the Altoona Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Altoona, Iowa. No visitation will be held at this time. A funeral service/celebration of life has yet to be determined. Interment will be at the Mt Etna Cemetery, (Mt. Etna a.k.a. Brethren Cemetery - Adams County, Iowa).

Cliff was born February 4, 1926, in Yakima, WA. To parents Grey Everett & Pauline Ruff (Moberly). Cliff joined 2 brothers Wilbert and Earl and 3 sisters Edith, Marie and Lavina in their home.

Cliff graduated from Selah High School and went on to study at LaVerne College where he met his 1st wife Gloria (Harvey) they married in 1953. After College, Cliff and Gloria moved to Chicago so that Cliff could continue his studies and in 1955 received in Master of Divinity from the Bethany Theological Seminary. Cliff and Gloria had 2 sons Greg and Brad. Cliff then answered his career/calling to minister at the Church of the Brethren, with assignments at multiple churches over the years. Gloria died in 1968. Cliff spent time as the Director of the Church Camp and loved his time camping, fishing, sports, crafts and producing plays, while inspiring young minds to knows the ways of the bible.

Cliff married Phyllis Kingery Ruff in 1977, in Council Bluffs, Iowa. As Cliff continued his career/calling with the Brethren Church. Cliff and Phyllis moved to Ankeny until 1990 when Cliff retired. At this time, they returned to Omaha and purchased their 1st home.

In retirement Cliff enjoyed Travel to Great Britain, England, Wales, Ireland, Scotland, Spain, Alaska, Scandinavia, Holland, Denmark, Norway, Poland, Finland, Russia, and Sweden. His hobbies included Bird watching, Nebraska Ornithologists Union, Omaha Audubon Society, Antiques, woodworking, Flea Markets, and the Lions Club, where Cliff also served as President.

Cliff was preceded in death by his loving wife, Phyllis Kingery-Ruff of Altoona; his 1st wife Gloria; son Greg and parents Grey Everett & Pauline one granddaughter, Jerrica. He is survived by a son Brad of Omaha, NE, Grandchildren Ryan, Bret, and Michelle, Great Grandchildren Jimmy, Lex, Madison, Jackson, Zackery Reyna and Madeline Reyna, numerous nieces and nephews as well as other extended family members.

In lieu of flowers, your generous memorial gift can be made to:

Church of the Brethren, 500 East Cedar Street Elizabethtown, PA 17022