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Roberta Ruch Obituary

RUCH Roberta "Bobbie" Ruch, died unexpectedly on Monday, August 31, 2009, at her residence. Bobbie was the President and CEO of Acloche LLC and Ruch Corporation. She was born in Carlisle, Pa. and moved to Columbus in 1968. Bobbie is a graduate of The Columbus School for Girls; attended Ripon College, Ohio State University, Wharton Applied Business School and the Buckley School in Camden, S.C. Bobbie was preceded in death by her parents George C. and Betty Lou Ruch-Schwartz, and her brother George C. Ruch, Jr. She is survived by her beloved daughter, Georgia Fahs Ruch; extended family, countless friends and devoted employees. Bobbie was instrumental in the expansion of central Ohio's business community and the growth of Columbus to a vibrant and creative commercial center. She was ranked as one of the Top 500 Women-Owned Businesses in the nation by Working Women Magazine; positioned as the second largest staffing service in Central Ohio by Business First and Columbus CEO Magazine; named a Leading Edge Company by United Way and honored in Business First as one of the top 100 privately held companies in central Ohio. Bobbie was a member of Trinity Episcopal Church, Founding Member of The Women in Family Owned Businesses, Founding member and past Director of the Ohio Staffing Association; Board Trustee for Columbus School for Girls from 1995-2003; Member of the Steering Committee for Riverside Methodist Hospital Foundation; Blue Chip Foundation Honoree; Directors Circle Member for the Wexner Center; Board Trustee for The Columbus Museum of Art; Chair of the Annual Art Ball and Corporate sponsor for the Monet Exhibit; Steering Committee for the James Cancer Center "Up on the Roof" charity event; NAWBO Advisory Board Member; Board Trustee of The Women's Fund of Central Ohio; Co-chair of the Franklin Park Conservatory Le Chapeaux Dans Le Jardin 2010; and Board Member of the Greater Columbus Arts Council. Funeral service will be celebrated at Trinity Episcopal Church, 125 East Broad Street, Columbus, Oh. on Thursday, September 3, 2009, at 1 p.m. The family will receive friends following the service at their residence, 46 North Parkview, Bexley, from 2-5 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to The Columbus School for Girls, The Wexner Center for the Arts, or the Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute at The Ohio State University.

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Published by The Columbus Dispatch on Sep. 2, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Roberta Ruch

Not sure what to say?





Shelly McCann Spiller

January 24, 2024

Recenlty I wondered what happened to the remarkable owner at Olsten services when I came upon her obituary. Let me tell you a story about Bobbie Ruch and her mother. In 1988 I worked as a receptionist at Olsten staffing. I was young, pregnant and didn't have much money. One day Bobbie invited me to her home. I was a bit nervous, I really didn't know her other than that she was my boss. I arrived to find that she and her mother bought me an entire professional maternity wardrobe, several really nice outfits, so that I would feel comfortable at work. They didn't bring the clothes to work to show off their generosity, they didn't want to embarass me. They didn't have to do this, they did it because they were amazing people. Both of them I'm sure are in heaven, I'm sure of that.

Phyllis Williams

August 18, 2010

Oh my goodness, I just saw this when looking for an address for Olsten Health Services. My heart is broken and I am saddened today. Bobbie always had an open heart and ear and helped me a lot as a young mom. Georgia, I'm so sorry to hear about your mom. She was the best boss/CEO any employee could ask for. My prayers will be with you and your family always......

Kathy Meyers

October 27, 2009

Dear Georgia,
I remember your mother from my days as the Development Director of The Salesian Boys & Girls Club of Columbus. She attended a Donor event at The Huntington Building, 41 S. High St., even though she had been in an auto accident on her way to the party. She arrived a bit shaken and late, yet she was so warm and sweet and I sat with her for quite a while, so she could 'decompress' from the auto accident. Once she talked it through, she put on her professional face and said: "Now, tell me what you need from me!" I'll never forget that. Sorry for this late arrival, I was out of town when she passed and unaware until I got my "Women's Fund 1/4ly Newspaper. You will be in my prayers.
Kathy Meyers

java

October 21, 2009

There is an empty chair at some many places that made Columbus what it is today but in that chair is Bobbies “beautiful spirit” . She remains in memory and legacy
a powerful source of inspiration” for women and girls
in Columbus. She was a sincere and passionate ad-
vocate for the arts and all things that lifted the human-
ity in us. A friend, Java

Cynthia Waite

October 16, 2009

Dear Georgia,

Your mother taught me to roller skate when she was seven years old. I didn't have skates so she lent me hers -- the kind you tightened up with a skate key you wore on a string around your neck, like a talisman. Even at that age she was generous, kind, and friendly to everyone. She was a magical little red-haired girl with a great sense of humor and fun. Skating at Bobbie Ann's house near Bosler Free Library is one of my happiest childhood memories. May God bless you and her, and all your family.

Lexi Schiff

October 12, 2009

Georgia I am soo sorry to hear about your mom she was a wonderful women and always had time for anyone who needed her and she was very bright and beautiful. My prayers are with you!

Archie Williamson

September 21, 2009

Dear Georgia, I am shocked by the news of the passing of your mother. I have been traveling and just found out today. I will always remember her as a awesome business peer and great friend. I will always remember how she made everyone feel at home in her home. If their is anything I can do please feel free to call because your mom always had a open ear when it came to me.

Archie Williamson (Columbus, Ohio)

September 20, 2009

Dear Georgia - Needless to say, we were all shocked at this news. Your mother (and grandmother) were always part of our family and added so much to our lives growing up in Carlisle. I know Zach and Natalie think you're fantastic, and we know you will do great in life. We are so sorry and want to do whatever we can. Let us know what we can do - and come visit us in Florida if you ever can!! Love, Susan and Dave Yeager (and Nat and Zach)

Sharon N.

September 11, 2009

Dear Georgia, I remember those very early days, not long after your mother had come to Ohio to work alongside your grandmother at Olsten.. Bobbie and I used to debate why she had to send me to the complete other side of town to work, and send girls on that side of town to MY side of town to work! We managed to work together for more than 20 years, long after Olsten had changed to Acloche. I have some very fond memories of Bobbie and of your grandmother.

This is a great loss and a shock, I'm sure. We never know when the Good Lord will call us home. Please know that there are MANY of us who adored your mother, and how she adored you! We heard little tidbits about you at every meeting. She was very proud of you. Hang in there and let our prayers surround you and help keep you going until your grief subsides a little, and it will.. Your mom was a very special lady and will always be in our memories.

Betsy Cavendish

September 11, 2009

Dear Georgia, the Cavendish family's sympathies are with you. Your grandparents and your mom were vivid, sociable, dynamic family friends for many decades. We all have many happy memories of them at the gorgeous parties in Bexley and sitting around on back patios in Upper Arlington, going back to the late 60's-and 1970s. So sorry for your loss.

Steve Stivers

September 9, 2009

Georgia:

Karen and I will keep you in our prayers. We were deeply saddened by the passing of your mother.

You mom was an extrodinary person who leaves a great legacy in the community and also in the lives of those who knew her.

If there is anything we can do for you, please let us know.

Robert Lanius

September 8, 2009

Dear Georgia, I'm just stunned by your mother's passing. It seems I've known her a long time. I remember grandpa George. Just wanted to express my sympathy and hope you are allright. Your favorite (at least your mother's) bartender, Robert

September 8, 2009

Dear Georgia,

I am so sorry for the loss of your mother. I know how much you meant
to you mom and your mom too you.

Your mother and Betty Lou were my life-
long best friends. I will really miss
Bobbie.

My heart and prayers go out to you.
If you ever need me I will always
be available for you.

Love,
Debbie Douglas Stoup
Carlisle, Pa

September 7, 2009

Dear Georgia,
I worked with your mother for years even back in the Olsten days before cell phones and computers the old fashion way and was proud to be a part of her team. She was a great leader and business women. She helped me become very successful in my career and I loved the challenge of the staffing business very much..still do! I enjoyed hearing about you as we worked together. She will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Sincerely, Karrie Harner Miller

Chip Kohler

September 4, 2009

Dear Georgia,

I am very sorry to hear of your mother's death. She was a very kind and sincere person. I remember her from CSG, and from the times that I came to your house to pick up Amy. My heart goes out to you.

Capital Club Staff

September 3, 2009

We ache for you as you must bear a heavy burden of sadness and loss. Bobbie was so very wonderful -- kind, bright with no arrogance, hard-working but always with time for her beloved family. You are be in our prayers and thoughts.

September 3, 2009

Georgia,

I am so sorry for the loss of your sweet mother. I am praying for you and will be here for you as soon as you get back to Dallas. Love you,
Candi

George Berardi

September 3, 2009

Georgia, sweetheart....my deepest most heart-felt sorrow for the loss of your Mom. I shared Bobbi's loss with Christian, Nicholas, and Elizabeth, and they were so deeply saddened. Since I am away, I'll miss services, but I will attend to special prayers for her eternal rest as she joins Betty Lou, and the Georges.... if gentle hugs and a kiss help in the smallest way, please accept this from me....George

September 3, 2009

Georgia,
Your mom had SO many fans - all the work she did in the community, all the people she served and helped through the business and most of us were just fans because of her passion, energy and she always made time for anyone! She was SO proud of you and probably told everyone else more often than she told you. No words can heal, as many others have said please rely on the many friends and colleagues for support in the coming months and year. Patti Cotter (friend from Bank One days)

Verna & Charae Williams

September 3, 2009

Dear Georgia,
Please accept our deepest sympathies. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief.

September 2, 2009

Dear Georgia,
It was obvious to all that you were the light of your mother's life. Be strong and make her proud...you are a great girl...woman. Love, Sally and Gin Kurgis

September 2, 2009

I was very sad to hear about Bobbie. I know my husband had the up most respect for her and really enjoyed working for her. She is in great company with Betty Lou and Gerry Wojta.

Lisa Wojta

Jeff Siegler

September 2, 2009

Even only as a business colleague, I have many fond memories of Bobbie. Best among them is that she was clearly a leader - passionate, idealistic and absolutely the top person for extracting ideas from people, and making them happen. I will miss her.

September 2, 2009

Dear Georgia
Lauren and I are so very sorry for your loss. Your mom was an amazing woman. She did so much for so many . We will keep you in our thoughts. debbi and Lauren Banchefsky

Bryan Knicely

September 2, 2009

Georgia, you are in my thoughts and prayers and I am terribly saddened that your mother and our great friend is gone. Bobbie was a true inspiration, mentor and colleague and she will be greatly missed by many. You have my sincerest condolences, and let me know if there is anything you need.

Kelly Borth

September 2, 2009

Bobbie was an incredible person and a true friend to fellow women business owners. Bobbie's passing is a great loss to the Columbus community and the women business owners community. She will be missed and remembered fondly. She will always remain in our hearts as a great mentor, great leader and great person.

September 2, 2009

Georgia, God bless your during this time and my deepest condolences to you. I wish there was something to say to minimize your sorrow and pain but time will heal. Your Mother was an amazing, beautiful, woman and a mentor to many. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Candy Davis

Charles Dawes

September 2, 2009

I am deeply saddened to learn of Bobbie's death. She was a close friend and an inspiration as a community leader - compassionate, strong-willed and visionary. Bobbie, you are missed beyond words. The world is a better place because you walked in it.

September 2, 2009

Georgia,

I am very sorry for your loss. Know that I am here to support you in any way I can. I love you very much!

Wendy

Jerri Gillespie

September 2, 2009

Georgia,
My heartfelt condolences to you at this time.
Your Mother was a very iconic business woman and will be sadly missed and always be remembered and adored for all she did to help women and others get their start in business.
Bobbie will forever be in our thoughts and you will always be in our prayers.

Olga Barth

September 2, 2009

Dear Georgia,

My heart bleeds for you. I know that there are no words that can console you or soften the blow of your loss, but I want you to know that I would like to support you in any way I can.

Olga Barth
614-893-4696

September 2, 2009

Georgia,

I wish there was something to say to minimize what you are experiencing but please know that Rachael and I are thinking of you and remembering all of the great times you, Bobbie, Rach and I shared over the years.
Sincerely,
Sallie Voyles

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