Robert H. Ruston

February 9, 1940 ~ October 21, 2024

Robert H. Ruston passed away on October 21, 2024 at St. Luke's Hospital in Newburgh. He was 84 years old.

Robert was born on February 9, 1940 to Perry and Virginia (Hamilton) Ruston in Bronxville, NY.

Bob was very active in numerous firematic organizations in several counties. He was a member of the NY Association of Fire Chaplains, where he served as chaplain for many fire departments in local counties. He was a life member of: FASNY (Firemen's Association of the State of New York), HVVFA (Hudson Valley Volunteer Firefighters Association), WCVFA (Westchester County Volunteer Firefighters Association, The Somers Volunteer Fire Department; Member of: Putnam County Volunteer Fireman's Association, Southern New York Volunteer Firefighters Association, Volunteer Fire Police Association of Orange County, Volunteer Fire Police Association of Dutchess County, Ulster County Fire Police Association, Putnam/Northern Fire Police Association, and Somers Exempt Volunteer Fire Benevolent Association; charter member of the Royal Order of Blue Vests; director of the New York State Volunteer Ambulance and Rescue Association; on the board of trustees of the Town of Newburgh Volunteer Ambulance Corps; president of the Somers Chamber of Commerce; as well as a member of the National Association of Realtors and the New York State Notary Public.

Robert is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Pacella; daughter, Gina Marie Valetutti of North Carolina; son, Christopher J. Ruston; and Susan Pacella Brummell, who he always referred to as his daughter.

He was predeceased by his parents, and his long-time best friends, John Bernal and "Chubby" Faillace.

A memorial visitation will be held at Brooks Funeral Home on Friday, November 1 from 4 – 7 PM, with a firematic service at 6 PM.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the FASNY Firemen's Home, 125 Henry Howard Ave., Hudson, NY 12534.

A memorial visitation will be held at Brooks Funeral Home on Friday, November 1 from 4 - 7 PM, with a Firematic service taking place at 6 PM.