John A. Rucki, age 58, soulmate, husband and best friend of Judith L. Rucki, left this earthly existence Wednesday, December 11th to be with his Lord and Savior.

Born in Putnam in 1955, John grew up in Abington in his beloved parents' store, learning the trade and cutting meat with his father, Walter Sr.  Eventually his love for the woods drew him towards establishing his own logging and sawmill operation, where he produced milled lumber for many years.  Those who knew John knew he was most comfortable cutting timber.

In recent years, John divided his energies between crop farming at his homestead in Woodstock, tending a wide array of naturally grown vegetables, and caring for his aged mother, Lillian, of whom he was extremely proud.  He was an avid supporter of the Second Amendment, the Constitution and an individual's right to pursue life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.  He loved his Polish heritage and carried the stresses of America's losses of freedoms heavy in his heart.

John is survived by his wife, Judith Lynn Rucki of Woodstock; his mother, Lillian A. Rucki of Abington; two children, Justin and Jessica, who always had a special place in his heart; also, two sisters, Lillian and Gloria; a brother, Walter Jr. of Pomfret, numerous nieces and nephews, and a very special friend, Deb Williams of Woodstock.  His two incredible dogs, R.B. and Koosh, will miss him terribly.

Calling hours are Friday evening, December 13th at the Shaw-Majercik Funeral Home, 48 School Street, Webster, from 5 to 7 pm.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, December 14th at 8:30 am at Holy Trinity Church, Pomfret.  Burial will be at the convenience of the family.  A guest book is available at www.shaw-majercik.com.