Almon "Ork" Ruggles, Jr.

Almon “Ork” Orcutt Ruggles, Jr., age 75 of Ayer, passed away on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at RiverCourt Residence in Groton, surrounded by his family. He was the husband of Marcia Jeanne (Maloof) Ruggles.

Born on January 4, 1950, in Washington, DC, he was the son of the late Almon Orcutt Ruggles, Sr., and Shirlie (Waters) Ruggles.

Ork was raised in Lunenburg graduating from Lunenberg High School. He later attended and graduated from UMASS Amherst, where he met his wife, Marcia. 

On August 11, 1972, Ork and Marcia married and lived in Groton before moving briefly to Longmeadow and returning to Dunstable. Ork had a long and successful career as a Project Manager for various computer companies, including Digital Equipment Co. 

Family and friends were the center of his life; he cherished his wife and daughters and delighted in his four grandchildren. He was an avid New England professional sports fan and an enthusiastic cheerleader for every activity in which his grandchildren participated. Ork also enjoyed playing golf, gardening, fishing, and hiking through local trails. Most of all, he loved spending time on Cape Cod.  Ork was a self-taught handyman who eagerly took on projects, including renovating three houses purchased with Marcia and later assisting his daughters with their own home projects.

Along with his wife, Marcia, he is survived by his daughters, Emily Clark and husband John, of Littleton, and Alison Flynn and husband Michael, of Chelmsford; his grandchildren, Jack, Owen, Charlotte, and James; brothers, Bill and Steve; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews and their children, loving in-laws, and a host of long-time friends. He is predeceased by his mother and father, as well as his treasured brother, Ben, and his “good girl”, Sophie, the Bearded Collie who captured his heart. 

Family and friends will gather to honor and remember Ork for visiting hours on Friday, February 21, 2025, from 4:00-6:00 pm at the Badger Funeral Home, 45 School St., Groton, MA. His memorial service will be in the funeral home on Saturday, February 22, at 10:00 am. Burial in Groton Cemetery will be private on a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:
Mass Audubon Society
208 S. Great Road
Lincoln, MA 01773
781-259-9500
massaudobon.org
 or
Mass General Development Office
125 Nashua Street, Suite 540
Boston, MA 02114-1101
https://giving.massgeneral.org/donate/lung-cancer-research

Arrangements under the care of Badger Funeral Home, 45 School Street, Groton, MA 01450  www.badgerfuneral.com