Lake George/Bokeelia, FL- Harry Ruecker, 78, of Lake George entered into eternal life on Saturday, October 18, 2014 with his two sons by his side. Harry was a native of New York City. He was then raised in Germany until his family returned to the United States when he was five. Harry settled in the Capital Region in the late 1960’s. He was also a winter resident of Bokeelia, Florida.
Harry graduated from Sewanhaka High School in Floral Park and in 1957 from Paul Smith College, where he majored in Hotel and Restaurant Management. He was the owner and operator of several restaurants in Europe, as well as in the Capital District. Such restaurants include numerous “Sizzler Steak House” operations on the east coast. He also owned and operated “The Cellar” in Albany, and “Harry’s Beef, Bottle and Brew” in Guilderland.
Harry was also employed in Law Enforcement for many years, working as a mounted officer with the Warren County Sheriff’s Department, New York State Park Police, and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute’s Dept. of Public Safety. Harry was also a proud veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard.
He had a passion for traveling the world. He enjoyed travels through Germany, Greece, Italy, Switzerland, Turkey, and Israel. In 1960, Harry and four other men set out from Germany on a 53 foot yacht and came to New York via England, Spain, Madiera Island and Bermuda.
Harry was an avid skier, hunter, fisherman, and outdoorsman. One of his favorite pastimes was boating on Lake George, as well as on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Harry is survived by his two sons; Tyson (Erin) Ruecker of Colonie, and Garrett (Rebecca) Ruecker of Colonie, his sister, Anita (William) Hothan of New Hyde Park. Harry was the loving grandfather of Ashley, Madison , Mackenzie, and Cason. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
Harry is preceded in death by his parents Emile and Claire Ruecker.
Calling hours will be held at New Comer Cannon Funeral Home., 343 New Karner Rd., Albany, on Saturday, October 25th, 2014, from 1:00pm- 3:00pm, with a memorial service to immediately follow.
Harry’s family would like to thank the staff at Albany Medical Center, particularly Nurse Patty Mayo, for their Kindness, care, and support.