Obituary of James F. Ruane, Jr.

James F. Ruane, Jr. “Jim” On Monday, September 27, 2021, age 81, of Pittsburgh, passed away peacefully at home after a courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease. Jim had a special Irish sparkle in his eye that was present even in the final days of his illness. He had many accomplishments in his life, but his greatest by far was the love he had for his family. He is survived by wife of 53 years, Nancy, who was his loving caregiver throughout his illness; his three daughters who were his pride and joy - Kristen Hankinson (Scott) of Pittsburgh, Jennifer Lynn (John) of St. Louis, and Erin Karsman (Chase) of Pittsburgh; and his six grandchildren who he cherished - Jack Lynn, James Lynn, Lily Karsman, Chloe Karsman, Reece Hankinson, and Claire Karsman. A devoted father, Jim instilled confidence, ambition, and a deep work ethic in each of his daughters. He emphasized the importance of academics, and took great joy in helping with homework, always creating quizzes and worksheets on his yellow pad. Jim was a wonderful and patient grandfather who had a unique gift of making children feel respected and valued. He loved nothing more than playing ball with his grandchildren, listening to their ideas, sharing his bedtime stories, and ensuring they each knew how special he thought they were. He was the epitome of a hands-on grandad, always ready and willing to play and interact with his grandchildren. He made sure his family always knew they were the most important thing in his life. Jim was an entrepreneur who owned a successful employee benefits and financial planning business for over three decades. Prior to owning his own business, Jim was a member of the Million Dollar Roundtable of Equitable Insurance Company, and the golf coach at Point Park College. He played professional minor-league baseball for the Philadelphia Phillies, where he was catcher and a switch hitter, making the all-star team each year. In recognition of his bat contract with Louisville Slugger, Jim’s signature is etched into the wall in the Louisville Slugger Hall of Fame Museum. During his younger days, Jim was a bat boy for the Pittsburgh Pirates, including Roberto Clemente, who would throw the ball with him. At Penn Hills High School, Jim was known as an outstanding athlete who was a standout on the baseball, basketball, and football teams, earning many awards. Before transferring to St. Vincent’s college, Jim played baseball at the University of Tulsa on an athletic scholarship. Notably, each of Jim’s six grandchildren inherited his passion for sports and academics, and he was so proud of all of them. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James and Margaret Ruane, and his sister Peggy Ruane. In addition to his wife, daughters, and grandchildren, Jim is survived by his brothers Regis Ruane (Marlie), Richard Ruane (Cheryl), John Ruane, and Edward Ruane; nephew Jack Abriola (Donna) as well as numerous other nieces and nephews and grand nieces and nephews. Friends received at McCabe Bros., Inc. Funeral Home, 6214 Walnut Street, Shadyside on Friday, 2-4 and 6-8. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in St. Mary Magdalene Parish, St. Bede Church on Saturday at 12 noon. Condolences may be left at www.mccabebrothers.com.