James C. Rucker

James Charles Rucker III, 69, of Hopewell, passed away on 10 September 2023.   He was born in Ithaca, New York, on 31 October 1953, the son of James Charles Rucker II and Mary Elizabeth Costello Rucker, and was known to family and friends as “Bucky” and “Jim.”  Jim was a beloved husband, father, brother, and uncle who will be deeply missed by family and friends.  He is survived by his wife Lisa; his son James Charles Rucker IV (“Jake”); his sisters Barbara Rucker (Rick Russo), his twin Kathryn Rucker Hitchcock,  and Julie Rucker; his nieces and nephews Elizabeth, Ethan and Lora Hitchcock, Stephanie and Alex Frantz, Kayle, Jack, Alex and Kaylee Koeppen, and Grace Jordan; his grandnephew Alex Koeppen Jr. and grandniece Elise Hitchcock; and many cousins.  Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Stephanie Rucker Choguill, and brothers-in-law John Jesse Choguill and Henry Hitchcock. Jim lived most of his life in Pittsburgh, attended Mt. Lebanon High School and was a businessman in Pittsburgh for many years until chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) limited his activities.  He loved his family, his kittens, golf, chess, puzzles, and going to the beach with his family.  In lieu of flowers, his family suggests donations to the American Lung Association or local pet shelters. A memorial service and celebration of his life will be held on 7 October 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at 5903 Maple Grove Road, Bulger PA 15019. Arrangements by Ball Funeral Chapel, Inc.

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