Nicholas J. Ruggiano, age 90, of Williamstown, NJ, formerly of South Philadelphia, passed away on December 26, 2024 after a brief illness.

Beloved husband of 67 years to Grace Ruggiano (nee Bontz).  Devoted father of Mary Grace Swanson (Butch), Donna Lamaine (Thomas), and Karen McDonnell (James).  Loving grandfather of Jillian Staskin (Nicholas), Nicholas Swanson (Kelly Ann), James McDonnell (Lauren), and Stephanie McDonnell (David).  Treasured great grandfather of Richie Staskin, Rosie Staskin, Mallory McDonnell and Ava Moore.  Dear brother of the late Jean Remaker and brother-in-law of Marie Swavely.  He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

Before retiring, Nick worked as an Inventory Control Supervisor for BioIndustries in Philadelphia and had previously worked for J. B. Lippincott & Co. and Theresa Friedman & Sons, Inc.

Born in South Philadelphia, Nick was raised by his Aunt Grace.  He was a hard worker who helped to support his Aunt and family by taking his first job in the 8th grade.  He attended Southeast Catholic High School where he was a star football player.  He proudly wore #41.  Nick had a great sense of humor and often played practical jokes while in school.  Every day one of the priests would smack him in the head "just in case he had any ideas."

Nick met the love of his life, Grace, when he was 19 years old.  They married in 1957 and built a beautiful life together for nearly 68 years.  Big Nick and Peaches, as they are affectionately known, raised three daughters working hard to provide them with a stable, loving life as well as a Catholic School education.  Over the years, they added three "sons" to their lives, four grandchildren and four great grandchildren.  Nick's family was the most important part of his life.  He was proud of the family he created with Grace and gained immense satisfaction from his role as family patriarch.

Big Nick was predeceased by his best friends, the FUs (Friends United).  Everyone who knew Nick knew of the FUs.  They were Nick's childhood friends who brought much joy, laughter and fun to his life.  They created wonderful memories together crabbing, making homemade wine at Frank's farm, attending parties with their spouses, eating mussels at Ralph & Ricky's and meeting up as often as possible for some hell raising and camaraderie.  The story of Nick's life could not be told without his FUs!

Nick had many interests throughout the years.  He was a Mummer at heart and spent many New Year's Days on South Broad Street marching with the Clevemore Fancy Brigade.  When he could no longer march he enjoyed the parade through his son-in-law and grandson as they marched with Fralinger String Band.  He never missed a parade!  Nick loved to cook and bake.  His cookies and his pizza are legendary!  He passed his love of baking onto his granddaughters who use his recipes to bake Pop Pop's cookies every holiday.  Nick was an avid reader and loved doing puzzles.  He could put a 1,000 piece puzzle together in record time!  Nick enjoyed watching sports and was a big fan of the Phillies, Eagles, Flyers and Sixers.  Nick loved all things Italian, especially the food and red wine.  He would tell the kids while eating his favorite broccoli rabe or drinking his wine that it "puts hair on your head" as he would pat his bald head.

Although a resident of Williamstown, NJ, Nick maintained a deep love for his hometown of South Philly.  He loved living in the city and fondly remembered many great years on Opal Street.  Nick was always a good neighbor and went out of his way to help others.  Whether he was putting trash cans away, sweeping the alley or dropping off his famous pumpkin bread, Nick enjoyed taking care of those who lived around him.  He was well known in the neighborhood and could be heard whistling as he walked down the street.  You always knew when Big Nick was on his way home!

Nick was a handsome, well-groomed man.  He always looked good and smelled wonderful in his favorite Jovan Musk cologne.  Big Nick was loved by all who knew him.  He had a kind word and a friendly wave and smile for everyone who crossed his path.  A man of great faith, Nick touched many lives in his 90 years and left his mark on many hearts.  As his favorite singer Frank Sinatra would sing, "I've lived a life that's full, I travelled each and every highway, and more, much more than this, I did it my way."

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his visitation on Saturday, January 4th from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, where a memorial service will be held at 12:00 PM at the Farnelli Funeral Home, 504 N. Main Street, Williamstown, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Red Cross by visiting www.RedCross.org