Obituary of Michael Cade Ruegger

Michael Cade Ruegger, 31, commonly known as Mookie, passed away on February 3rd, 2014 after a life-long struggle with Muscular Dystrophy. He was born February 10, 1982 in Greenwich, CT and was the son of Arthur and Susan Ruegger of Darien, CT. Mookie grew up in Darien and graduated from Darien High School in 2001. While at DHS, he was active in the Debate Team, was a manager with the football team under Coach Mike Sangster and developed a love for American History. After high school, Mookie went on to receive his bachelor's degree at Hofstra University, his master's degree at Southern Connecticut State University and, at the time of his death, was pursuing a PhD in History from SUNY at Albany. Mookie was a member of the RTM from 2007 to 2008 where he represented district 2, and was active in the Darien Democratic party. For the past year, Mookie was a resident of the Respiratory Rehabilitation Center at St. Clare's Hospital in Dover, NJ. He will be remembered for his ability to see the humor in all situations, his keen wit and his tenacity in never letting obstacles stop him from pursuing his goals. In addition to his parents, Mookie is survived by his sister, Cait of Darien, CT and his grandparents Catherine and Herman Ruegger of Wellington, FL and Mary Hildebrand of Nashville, TN. Calling Hours will be held at the Edward Lawrence Funeral Home, 2119 Post Road, Darien on Friday, February 14, 2014 from 3-5 and 7-9 pm. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2014 at 2 pm at St. Luke's Parish, 1864 Post Road in Darien. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made In Memory of Michael Ruegger and sent to: The University at Albany Foundation at UAB 226, 1400 Washington Ave, Albany, NY 12222 or RRC, St. Clare's Hospital, 400 W. Blackwell St, Dover, NJ 027801. Funeral Home: Edward Lawrence Funeral Home 2119 Post Road Darien, CT USA 06820