Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Paul Ruback Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Matt Cimento
September 12, 2024
Paul was my cousin and growing up, we spent many days together at family outings. Although Paul was 8 years older than me, he was always engaged with us as kids. Even though he was very tall and playing baketball in college, he would let us 11-year-old runts block his shots and beat him when playing in the driveway. I remember Paul's high school graduation. His twin sister, Jane, received about every academic award they gave out and Paul got none. Still, he could not have been more gracious and proud and happy for his sister. It was these lessons in kindness and grace I learned from Paul. I was devastated when I found out he had dies on 9/11 and have thought of Paul often in the years since. He wasn't perfect, but he was always kind and always dedicated to helping others. He died doing the same. I still miss you Paul.
Jeri Baker
September 11, 2020
I worked as a teaching assistant at a daycare center in New Windsor NY. It was my first week working at the center on the days leading up to 9/11/2001.
I remember your son Paul in particular as he was quietly friendly but not necessarily shy. He always listened to the teachers and was very kind to the other children.
He impressed me so much with his even temperament.
If I could imagine Jesus as a toddler, perhaps he would have behaved like your son Paul.
It saddened me deeply when I learned that Paul’s father was a firefighter who passed on that fatal day. 9/11 since then will always bring my thoughts and prayers to Paul and his family.
The Kindred Family
December 15, 2019
Sending our continued thoughts of deep sympathy to your family. Each day may God give the help needed to cope with such a sad loss. Paul touched the lives of many persons and is still sadly missed and remembered with fondness and appreciation.
Jerry Johnson
September 11, 2018
Paul Ruback,
I climbed the 110 stories in memory of you 17 years after 9/11 in Arlington Fire Academy in Arlington, TX. Thank you for all you did. As for Paul's family, I am so sorry for your loss but thank you for letting your loved one be all he could to save others in the face of danger.
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Tom H
September 11, 2018
Today, 09/11/2018, ( 17 years ...) we remember you Paul. Thank you for courage and service ... We will never forget. Wishing all the best to your family and friends. Much regards.
Julia Bell
September 11, 2018
Paul, I did the Stair Climb for you at Red Rocks in Korrison, Colorado today...thank you for being an amazing father, husband, and hero!
Gina Ruback
March 31, 2015
Hey Dad, this isn't something that I'd normally do. But you came to me in a dream the other night and I felt like it was time to put it out there. I love you so very much and there have been moments where it was almost like you were standing beside me guiding me or being my crying shoulder. I know that even though that you are not physically here with me that you are still present in my life. I carry a piece of you with me forever. You & mom together taught me so much about compassion and love. I love you Dad.
Pat Cramer
January 27, 2014
Meet you when did tha addition on your house on brewer road many moons ago think of every time I here 911 thanks for the laughs pat.
Deb/Paul macielag/ruback
September 12, 2012
Our son Paul looks more like his father each day. Now he is my height and he continues to grow...I'm sure he will grow into a fine man just like his dad. Paul is missed and loved very much. John 5:28 speaks about a promise that we are all very much looking forward to. It will truly be a time of rejoicing.
Lori Wilson
September 11, 2012
Rest in Peace.. you are a hero and missed deeply..
September 11, 2012
I cannot believe that 11 years have past since that tragic day... Paul was like a Daddy to me. They were "my family". The memories of him as a NY Firefighter as a kid were immortalizing. He is and will always be a Hero. He died doing what he loved to do. Miss you very much...Firefighters never die...they just hang their boots in another needed peaceful place.
Love & Much Missed, your daughter Lori
September 12, 2011
Paul, I didn't know you until yesterday when I picked up a flag w/ your name on it. I was attending the 9-11 Memorial Service in Orlando, FL. with my husband, a retired Orlando Firefighter. I have enjoyed reading about you and your family and firends. You were a wonderful father and friend as well as a hero. I am proud to honor you and your fellow firefighters who made the ultimate sacfifice. Know that we will never forget. We will remember your courage and strength. May God bless you and your family and bring them comfort..Let them know that others are honoring you for all you did.
Cathy from Orlando
Judy New
September 11, 2008
I was thinking of you today. I try not to but this year I couldn't escape the media and memorials around the area. You were so much fun and so full of life. Although your life was complecated, it certainly was full of people who loved you. you were a good friend and dearly missed. I am sure you are looking down over all of us, your family, friends and co-workers, like a guardian angel.
Erica
September 11, 2008
Although I didn't know Paul personally, I think of him and his family often. You see, I have a bracelet with his name and FDNY Ladder 25 on it. Shortly after the attacks, Macy's had a fundraiser where you could buy a copper bracelet and each bracelet would have a name of a victim from September 11th inscribed on it. I am honored to wear the bracelet and just wanted his family and friends to know that I pray for them often. God Bless.
Cathy Bush
May 15, 2008
Dear Paul,
I will think of you always as that little blond guy that lived next door to me in Chester, NY. Your older sisters Patty and Cathy, and you twin Janie were a large part of my growing up. Your Mom and Dad were a big part of my life. When your Dad died so very long ago - we the students of Chester High School had lost a best friend and I lost my wonderful math teacher who always took time to help the kid next door. You moved away and I moved to Alaska and I lost touch with the whole family. When I heard that you were a hero - it didn't surprise me at all - you whole family, your Dad, Mom, and all your sisters were raised to respect and were encouraged to help others. I think of you often and please know that your family is always in my prayers.
Cathy (Atkin) Bush
Roberta Kratochwil
April 7, 2008
Dear Pauldaddy,
I will always remember the kindness of you and Mom. You both opened your hearts and home to me and I will never forget that. There are certain people that touch your life in a way that you never forget. You are one of those.
I will always remember those silly horses and how you got thrown from Dukey, quite a feat considering your height! I wont forget North Lake, camping out in the front yard, staying up late getting drunk and laughing our butts off on the covered porch. Lamb for dinner?!!.. Yeah, it was great!
But most of all, best of all, was the fact that you were THE BEST at trivial pursuit...I mean, NO ONE could beat you!! And everytime I hear the song, "Amy/falling in and out of love" by Pure Prairie League I think of you.
You were an awesome role model. Soft spoken and sincere, the gentle giant. Some of my best memories are with you and your family. I will always miss you.
Paul Macielag-ruback
January 20, 2008
I miss you dady.I wish you were here with me when I was sick.I wish you were here to play with me.I wish a lot of good things about you .I hope Isee you in the paradise.
Debbie Macielag
January 19, 2008
I loved your last fire dept. picture. This one didn't really do you justice. It didn't show the happy, jovial man that will remain in my heart forever. I remind your little boy Paul how wonderful you were every day of his life. I am glad we named him after you. You will always be missed...things will never be the same without you here with us.
kristine
May 1, 2007
As I stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
P Tabbernor
February 23, 2007
In memory....
Lori Wilson
September 11, 2006
Paul was like a Daddy to me. They were "my family". The memories of him as a NY Firefighter as a kid were immortalizing. He is and will always be a Hero. He died doing what he loved to do. Miss you very much...Firefighters never die...they just hang their boots in another needed peaceful place.
Love, your daughter Lori
shannon ruback
February 27, 2006
Daddy, I miss you more and more everyday...My heart is broken mow that u are gone.... I think about you all the time and you will be in my heart forever ..... I love you daddy!!! ~ur little girl~
Das Morley
November 17, 2005
You are more than a hero, Paul...
Your contribution will live on for all time.
Thank you, and peace be with you.
Mitch Hinton
August 21, 2004
We will never forget.
Showing 1 - 24 of 24 results
Make a Donation
in Paul Ruback's name
How to support Paul's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Paul Ruback's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
Sponsored