Frank Ruggieri

91, of Cranston, passed away on Tuesday, July 22, 2014 at home. He was the beloved husband of Elisabeth (Brehm) Ruggieri. Born in Cranston, he was the son of the late Orazio and Assunta (Agresti) Ruggieri who emigrated from Itri ,Italy. He was a Navy veteran of WW II serving in the Philippines and a member of the VFW Post 2396 in Cranston. He attended Bryant College and graduated with a BS in Accounting and Finance in 1946. He then worked at Hi Hat Foods until 1960 becoming the General Manager. While at Hi Hat, he attended Providence College and received a Bachelor of Arts in Education and began teaching business at Cranston High School West in 1960. At Cranston West he pioneered the work/study program for students and taught there until 1980. He founded Portion Meat Associates, Inc. in 1964 while teaching at Cranston West and built the business serving as General Manger until 1994 when he retired. In retirement, he acted as tour director for several trips to Italy and traveled extensively to Europe, India, Russia, China, South America, and Africa. He was an avid gardener, enjoyed classical music and opera, history, and spending time with his family at the ocean.
Besides his beloved wife he is survived by his loving children, Susan M. Ruggieri of Cranston, Karen E. Sampson and her husband Alfred of Warren and Steven K. Ruggieri and his wife Miriam of Southborough, MA. Frank was also the devoted grandfather of 6, great grandfather of 2, and dear brother of the late Salvatore Ruggieri and Jennie Castore.
His funeral will be held on Saturday at 10 am from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory 1278 Park Ave., Cranston followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 am in St. Mary's Church, Cranston. Burial with military honors will take place in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston. VISITING HOURS: Friday 4-8 pm. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to: The Michael Carter Lisnow Respite Center 112 Main Street Hopkinton, MA 01748.

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