By the family

Sept. 22, 2021: With profound sadness we announce the passing of Ginger Ruckman, of Norwalk, CT, on Friday, September 17, 2021. 

Ginger was born on June 28, 1949 in Bronxville, NY, the only child of the late Edwin and Ruth Kelly.  She is survived by her loving husband of 47 years, Mack; her children and their spouses Craig and Julia Ruckman, Scott and Maureen Ruckman, Brian Ruckman, and Meghan Ruckman and Tom Picardi; her grandchildren Conor, Mack, Kieran, Penelope, Eliza, Marguerite and Callum; and Jackson, her faithful and loving Weimaraner.

Ginger spent nearly her entire life in Bronxville, New York.  She was a graduate of The Ursuline School in New Rochelle, and following her studies at the College of Saint Elizabeth, Ginger began her professional career as a registered dietician at New York Hospital Cornell Medical Center.  She later became an accomplished and well-respected real estate broker in the Bronxville area working most recently with Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s to help numerous families find their forever homes.

Ginger was a consummate hostess and lived to entertain family and friends in her home.  She loved a fun party and, apropos, had the quote “Never mistake endurance for hospitality” prominently displayed in her home.  She loved cool sunny days, dogs and a big warm fire in the fireplace.  An avid gardener, she rarely let a day pass without a fresh bouquet of tulips in her home and was always in supply of freshly grown basil.  This came in handy, as she was an amazing cook, typically using a large paella pan to prepare meals since there were so many in the family.  She carried herself with elegance and grace in all facets of her life.  Her smile and charm radiated in all she did. 

Ginger’s proudest accomplishments, however, were her four children and her grandchildren.  Her devotion to her family was unwavering and interminable.  Nothing brought Ginger more joy than having her family together, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas.  Her ability to create a warm, loving home was unmatched, and perhaps that is why she experienced such satisfaction in helping people find their homes as a real estate broker.  Ginger will be greatly missed by all who knew her – to know her was to love her. 

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, September 23, 2021 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at McGrath Funeral Home, 20 Cedar Street, Bronxville, New York.  A private burial will take place at Gate of Heaven in Hawthorne, NY on Thursday, September 24.  Family and friends are invited to attend a reception in celebration of Ginger’s life at Siwanoy Country Club in Bronxville, NY on Thursday, September 24, from 2 to 4 p.m.