John J. "Bulldog" Ruff, age 69 of Hobart, passed away Monday, April 22, 2024. He was surrounded by his loved ones. John was born on June 7, 1954, in Evergreen Park, Illinois. John was a proud veteran of the US Navy, where he served as a cook and he loved to share those skills with his family and friends. His love for the Chicago White Sox and the Fighting Irish ran deep. Known as the Mayor of Crabapple Lane, he never met a stranger. His garage door was always open to friends and neighbors alike. He loved cooking for his friends and sitting by a good bonfire. John truly loved the community he shared with his neighbors, and he decorated for every holiday. He will always be remembered for his generous nature and the love he had for his dogs, Joe, Chuck and Anne.

He is survived by his siblings, Catherine (Bob) Sloan of DeMotte, Edward (Linda) Ruff of Mount Prospect, IL, Nancy (late Murrell Jr.) Farmer of Kentucky, Marie (John) Rokicki of Chicago, IL, Michael (Renee) Ruff of South Carolina, Patrick (Sandy) Ruff of Hobart, Thomas (Lisa) Ruff of Homer Glen, IL; many loving nieces, nephews, family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert J. Ruff, Sr. and Barbara Ruff; three brothers, Kenneth Ruff, William Ruff and Bobby Ruff; along with his sister, Barbara Tomlinson; and niece, Sammy Sloan.

Memorial contributions in John's name may be made to his favorite charity, Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd., Staten Island, NY 10306.

Visitation for John will be held Saturday, April 27, 2024, from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm at Rees Funeral Home, Hobart Chapel, 600 West Old Ridge Road, Hobart. A funeral service will take place at 1:00 pm at the funeral home. Burial of cremains will take place at a later date at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois.  For more information, please call (219) 942-2109. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.