Winfield S. Ruder, a 94 year old resident of Wappingers Falls, peacefully passed away after a brief stay in Vassar Brothers Medical Center, on August 22, 2014 with his family and home-caregivers by his side.
He was born in New York City on September 17, 1919 to the late Charles Ruder and Anna Weber and his years as a child were spent growing up in Elmhurst, Long Island. Winfield earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering from NYU and later served in the Merchant Marines during World War II as chief engineer on steam vessels, rising to the rank of Lieutenant. After the War, Mr. Ruder continued to sail steam vessels transporting crude oil and traveling the world. In 1964, Mr. Ruder was hired by IBM, moved to Wappingers Falls, and worked as an engineer until his retirement from IBM in 1987.
An amateur musician, Mr. Ruder enjoyed playing violin, viola and guitar. He frequently hosted chamber music gatherings at home and served as the President of the Southern Dutchess Pops orchestra. He loved trout fishing (never missed opening day) and gardening (known for producing amazing tomatoes). He also had a fondness for cats, and allowed his children to foster every homeless cat or kitten found in the neighborhood.
Win married Rita Cardos on May 18, 1957 in New York City. After celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary, Rita passed away on January 21, 2008. Winfield is survived by: daughter Susan and her husband Gregory Glavich of Lagrangeville; daughter Janet and her husband Dale Coughlin of Wappinger Falls; home-caregivers Christina, Ilinka and Sonia; and several nephews and nieces.
A private memorial will be held by immediate family and close friends at a later date. Mr. Ruder’s ashes along with his wife’s ashes will be scattered at sea by the Coast Guard according to his wishes in honor of his military service.
Memorial donations may be sent to the Animal Rescue Foundation, 60 Simmons Lane, Beacon New York 12508 or the Grace Smith House, 1 Brookside Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601. For online condolences and memorial donations, please visit Winfield's Book of Memories at www.mchoulfuneralhome.com.