Born and raised in Philadelphia, he was the son to the late Floyd and Julia Swartz Ruch. Robert was one of five siblings, Edward, Harold, Kenneth and Marilyn.

Robert attended Lincoln High School in Philadelphia. After graduating, he enrolled into the US Military. He served active duty in the Navy until October of 1963 as a propeller mechanic at the Naval Station Argentia in Newfoundland.

After completing his obligation to his country, Robert started his career at General Electrical as a machinist. He stayed with General Electric until 1969 when he started a new job with the Budd Company in Philadelphia. Robert worked as a manufacturing supervisor until his retirement in 1999. During his lifetime Robert was an car enthusiast which was a trait that he passed onto his two sons. After retirement he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, Robert is survived by his two loving sons; Robert Michael Ruch and his wife Suzanne, and Steven Ruch and his wife Jackqline, as well as his four grandchildren Michael, Ashley, Ryan and Alexander.

Relatives and friends are invited to greet the family on Wednesday August 21, 2019 from 10:00 AM until his Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM at St. Bede the Venerable Church, 1071 Holland Rd., Holland, PA 18966. His interment will follow with military honors at Washington Crossing National Cemetery, Newtown, PA.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to American Cancer Society in his name, 1626 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103.