Carl J. Ruggiero

Carl John Ruggiero, 82, of East Hartford, loving husband of 58 years of the late Miriam "Mir" E. (Sergi) Ruggiero, peacefully passed away surrounded by his loving and caring family on Saturday, November 2, 2019 at his home. Born in Hartford on August 10, 1937, a son of the late Joseph and Caroline (Pascone) Ruggiero, he had resided in East Hartford for most of his life. Carl was a graduate of East Hartford High School, Class of 1955 and had attended Hillyer College. He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army Reserve during the Vietnam War. Prior to his retirement, Carl was employed as a Marketing Manager by Great American Insurance Company in Hartford/Windsor for 37 years. He was a long-time communicant of St. Christopher Church, East Hartford, and former member of the Knights of Columbus – Rev. J.C. Martin Council #3901, East Hartford. He was also a member for many years of the former B.P.O.E. Carl enjoyed traveling (especially to Hawaii where he made several trips), watching classic and western movies, smoking cigars, and watching baseball, as well as being an avid loyal fan of the New York Yankees. Most of all, Carl was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who cherished spending time with his entire family. Carl is survived by his two beloved children: daughter, Christie R. Crooks of East Hartford; and son, Carlo Ruggiero and his wife, Elizabeth, of Columbia; his brother, Joseph Ruggiero and his wife, Janice, of Manchester; three adored grandchildren, Alyssa Crooks, Lauren Crooks, and Ryan Crooks all of East Hartford; his dog, Brandi; and several nieces, nephews, and dear friends. In addition to his wife and parents, Carl was predeceased by a sister, Sandy Ruggiero. Funeral service will be Thursday (November 7, 2019) at 9 a.m. from the D'ESOPO-East Hartford Memorial Chapel, 30 Carter Street, East Hartford with a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at 10 a.m. at St. Christopher Church of St. Edmond Campion Parish, 538 Brewer Street, East Hartford. Burial will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery, (Section J), Burnside Avenue, East Hartford. Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home chapel on Wednesday (November 6, 2019) from 4 – 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Carl's memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, 825 Brook Street, I-91 Tech Center, Rocky Hill, CT 06067. For on-line expressions of sympathy to the family please visit www.desopoeh.com.