Eugene Howard Ruble

Eugene Howard "Gene" Ruble, age 92, of Fremont Hills, passed away in his home Sunday, November 4, 2018. He was born February 24, 1926 in Plato, MO, the son of Henry and Mollie (Handley) Ruble. Following graduation from Lebanon High School Gene enlisted in the U.S. Army. He served his country as a decorated soldier and fought in the Battle of the Bulge. Following his enlistment, he attended Southwest Missouri State University (now MSU) graduating in 1950 with a Bachelor of Science in Education degree. He served as teacher and basketball coach for Ironton and later for Lebanon High Schools. He received a Master's Degree from the University of Missouri. In 1959 Gene became an agent for State Farm Insurance in Lebanon. He advanced to regional director and in 1973 became Vice President for American National Property and Casualty Company. Gene retired as President of American National in 1990. Following retirement he became a home builder in Fremont Hills. Gene was an All Star Basketball player for MSU, where he was letterman and first-team all-conference four consecutive seasons. His basketball accomplishments were recognized by his induction into both the MSU Athletic Hall of Fame and Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. Always generous, Gene donated his time to numerous boards and organizations, serving as President of both Make-A-Wish Foundation of Missouri and Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce. He was a member of Cassidy United Methodist Church. Gene enjoyed golf and spending time with friends. He also enjoyed the companionship of his faithful dog, Zoie. Survivors include: His wife, Ginger; A son and daughter-in-law, Doug and Karen Ruble of Springfield; a grandson, Chase Ruble and wife Lily of Richardson, Texas; two step-children, Donald Lee of Ozark, and Kathy Roy and husband Jeff, of Nixa. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Clyde, Claude, and Clinton Ruble, and his parents. Funeral services and military honors will be 2:00 PM Friday, November 9, in Adams Funeral Home, Ozark. Visitation will be from 1:00 PM Friday until service time. Burial will be at a later date in Missouri Veterans Cemetery, Springfield. Memorial donations may be made to Cassidy United Methodist Church or to the charity of the donor's choice.