Charles Edward Ruch

Dr. Charles Edward Ruch, Sr., beloved father, grandfather, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully in his home on September 19, 2024, at the age of 92. His life was full of love, family, travel and helping others. He was predeceased by his devoted wife of 62 years, Grace Wolohon Ruch, with whom he shared many memories filled with adventure and dedication.

Charles is survived by his two sons, Charles Ruch, Jr. of Kent Island, MD and David Ruch (wife Susan) of Durham, NC, and his five grandchildren: David Ruch, Jr. of New York, NY, John Ruch (wife Emme) of Chapel Hill, NC, Annie Ruch Robeson (husband Brian) of Annapolis, MD, Michael Ruch of New York, NY, and Katie Ruch of Honolulu, HI. Charles was deeply devoted to his family, especially his grandchildren, and all of his family and friends benefited from his generosity, compassion and wisdom.

Born in Illinois in 1932, Charles grew up in Delaware and Pennsylvania as the middle of three children (older brother Bob, younger sister Betty.) He graduated from Columbia Union College in Washington, DC and earned an MD degree at Loma Linda University School of Medicine in Los Angeles. After many years of training in psychiatry and psychoanalysis, he had a private practice in Chevy Chase for more than 40 years. He and Grace raised their family in suburban Maryland until they relocated to Annapolis in 2001, where Charles continued working part-time well into his 80s.

Grace was the love of his life. Together they shared a life full of travel, antiquing and art collecting that reflected his appreciation for culture and craftsmanship. He cultivated a strong talent for gardening and a profound appreciation for good food, both cooking and eating. He was passionate about cars, especially convertibles, dating back to his drives up the California coast in the 1950s with Grace by his side. Above all, Charles will be remembered for his ability to offer sage advice and to relate to all kinds of people. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, his patients, and all who knew him.

Family visitation will be held Thursday, September 26, 2024 from 5 to 7 pm at John M. Taylor Funeral Home, 147 Duke of Gloucester Street, Annapolis, Maryland 21401. The funeral service will be Friday, September 27, 2024 at 1 pm at St. Anne's Parish, Church Circle, Annapolis, MD 21401 with burial at Lakemont Memorial Gardens, 900 W Central Ave, Davidsonville, MD 21035.