Jerry Ruckman
Alton | Save
Jerry Lee Ruckman (76) passed away on March 15, 2026, at his home in Georgetown, Texas, surrounded by his family.
He was a devoted husband and father. His unique combination of steadiness, strength, and kindness was noticed and appreciated by everyone who knew him. Besides his constant love and support, what we miss most is his warm smile and good-natured spirit. We are thankful to have so many wonderful memories with him.
Jerry was born in Alton, Illinois, on November 19, 1949, the son of the late Cornelius and Juanita Ruckman. Beginning at the age of 12, Jerry went to live with the late Joe and Tex Wickenhauser, who had five children of their own. Joe and Tex became his legal guardians and, along with their children, became a second family to him – a family relationship that continues to this day, more than six decades later.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Pam; his son, Aaron (Robin); his daughter, Sarah; and his grandchildren Lily, Ben and Ryleigh.
His surviving sisters are Louise Dustman, Janet Garrett (Ray), and Dollie Lester (Dave). His surviving brothers are Ken Ruckman (Lyn), John Wickenhauser (Gill), Dave Wickenhauser, and Dan Wickenhauser (Brenda).
He was preceded in death by his sisters, Alice Callison and Del Swiatkowski, and his brother, Charles Wickenhauser.
His memory lives on in the stories shared, laughter remembered, and the love that continues to surround his family and friends. We are grateful for the precious moments spent together and will honor him always in our hearts.
You are invited to celebrate Jerry’s life with us on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at Bluff City Grill in Alton, Illinois from 2-4pm.
