Hiram (Hy) Phelps Ruggles' Obituary
Our father, Hy Ruggles was called to Heaven on July 13, 2026.
Hy was born October 10, 1943, in San Pedro, California. He loved to watch ships in the harbor, and loved to feed local ducks. He developed a great duck call at a young age.
Hy graduated from Baldwin Park High School, where he played football and ran track. His high school was up the road from the original In-N-Out, Store #1, and he told stories of eating there when he was younger. He was never one to pass up a good burger, good Mexican food, or some deliciously fried chicken.
After high school, while cruising town with friends, Hy met the love of his life, Sandy Schmidt. They married, and settled in the city of El Monte. Hy and Sandy joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints a few years after being married. Hy enjoyed serving The Lord, while serving his fellow man. Hy also enjoyed going on backpacking trips with his sons when they were part of the Boy Scout program.
Hy created a family that loves baseball (go Dodgers!). He enjoyed coaching his four boys and his one daughter through Little League. He also enjoyed coaching 100’s of other youth over the years.
Every fall, Hy took his family beach camping. There was lots of boogie boarding, sandcastles, over-the-line, sometimes there was pie, and there were always ”ice runs”. He loved the beach, and instilled that same love into his kids. Many of the Ruggles still beach camp yearly.
Hy loved landscaping and making outdoor spaces look beautiful. One of his favorite things to do was creating beautiful waterfalls for his customers. As long as he was able, Hy continued to enjoy working his landscaping business.
Hy is preceded in death by his wife, Sandra Louise Ruggles; his son Jeffrey Alan Ruggles (Rachel); and his brother, Dennis Ruggles.
Hy is survived by his son, Michael Warren Ruggles (Renee); his son, Christopher Mathew Ruggles (Daneen); his daughter Kimberly Elizabeth Liu (Kevin); his son David William Ruggles (Aleah); 16 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; his sister, Sylvia Hopkinson; and his brother, Steven Simons.
We are grateful our dad is now at peace. We know his joy is full, as he has returned to his heavenly home. We are grateful for Our Savior, Jesus Christ, and the blessing of eternal families.
What’s your fondest memory of Hiram (Hy)?
What’s a lesson you learned from Hiram (Hy)?
Share a story where Hiram (Hy)'s kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Hiram (Hy) you’ll never forget.
How did Hiram (Hy) make you smile?