Howard Reiner Ruoff

Howard Reiner Ruoff, aged 91, died at home on July 17, 2025, surrounded by his three daughters, or as he lovingly referred to them, "the three queens." Born November 30, 1933, Howard touched the lives of many with his warmth, humor, generosity, and outgoing nature.

Born in Philadelphia, Howard was the youngest of nine siblings. He graduated from West Catholic High School in 1953, and later that year joined the Christian Brothers. In 1955 he left the Christian Brothers and joined the U.S. Army. Howard spent the next two years as an MP and then a chaplain's assistant while stationed in Pirmasens, Germany. Upon his return, he worked at First Pennsylvania Bank but resigned a year later to travel to Europe with an army buddy. It was on the ship to Europe that he met his future wife, Phyllis Marshall. They married on March 17, 1961, St. Patrick's Day-a welcomed day during Lent when fasting Catholics can enjoy meat, treats and alcohol. The newlyweds moved to Broomall, Pennsylvania, where Howard remained until 2013 when he moved to Punta Gorda, Florida.

Phyllis encouraged Howard to complete his college education, which he did while working full time at General Electric in Philadelphia and raising three small daughters. Howard began night school at St. Joseph's University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, followed by a Master's in Education at Villanova University.

Howard spent his teaching career at Sun Valley High School and Northley Middle School, part of the Penn-Delco School District, where he was a passionate and dedicated teacher and class sponsor to several classes. In addition to teaching, Howard also spent time as a real estate agent. Once retired, Howard enjoyed woodworking, traveling-especially to Scotland, and spending time with Phyllis, family, and friends. Howard also volunteered at the Broomall Fire Department.

His gregariousness and ability to connect with just about anyone led to many memorable occasions and a number of longtime friends. Above all, Howard was a devoted, loving husband, father, and grandfather.

Howard is survived by his three daughters, Karen Brown (Troy), Beth Ruoff, and Jennifer DiFelice (Mark); his grandchildren, Elizabeth (Anthony), Ryan, Christopher (Jenna), Taylor (Ben), and Natalie; and his great-grandson, Theodore. He was preceded in death by his wife Phyllis.

A gathering to honor and celebrate Howard will be held in the future, most likely early October, in Broomall, PA. The family will reach out to family and friends with specifics. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Broomall Fire Company at https://broomallfirecompany.com/support/