Saratoga News
Style
Obituaries
Holmes Forester Crouch
Holmes Forester Crouch, a 40-year resident of Saratoga, died on Feb. 25 at Good Samaritan Hospital. He was 88.
Crouch was born on Jan. 31, 1919, on a small farm in Drayden, Md. He graduated from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy with a degree in marine engineering. He wrote many technical articles on maritime matters, attaining the rank of lieutenant commander and serving in World War II before leaving active duty to pursue his education. He remained in the Coast Guard Reserve, eventually retiring with the rank of commander.
He earned a masters degree in nuclear engineering from the University of California, completed course work toward a Ph.D and wrote two books on nuclear propulsion.
In 1972 he was certified as a tax specialist and started a tax preparation business that he continued until he was hospitalized on Dec. 26. Along with his work, he enjoyed writing, hiking, swimming and traveling.
He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Irma Jean; his daughters Barbara MacRae and her husband; and Julie Robinson of Kalispell, Mont.; his son Donald Holmes of Sun City West, Ariz.; his grandchildren Olivia and Ruby MacRae, Douglas Robinson and Joan Thompson; his great-grandson Rory Thompson; and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services have been held along with burial at Madronia Cemetery in Saratoga.
William Harold Ruddy
William Harold Ruddy of Saratoga died Feb. 22, surrounded by his family. He was 78.
Ruddy was born on June 13, 1928, in Chicago. He graduated from the University of Illinois with a degree in civil engineering, then returned to Chicago, where he met his wife, Rosemary.
The Ruddys, who recently celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary, moved to Southern California in the early 1950s, where he managed aerospace projects at Northrop Corporation. He also earned advanced degrees in business and management at USC. The Ruddys moved to Saratoga last year.
In retirement, Ruddy kept active in many different business endeavors, and was an avid supporter of the activities of his grandchildren, especially their athletics.
He is survived by his wife, Rosemary; his sons Bill, Paul and Karl; his grandchildren Lisa, Laura and Sam; his sister Marge; and many other members of his extended family.
