Melvin Frederick Rugg, “Dr Mel”, a respected Dentist and long-time resident of Kent, died peacefully in his sleep on December 13, 2018 at the age of 86, due to complications from a fall. He also battled cancer and heart disease for many years.
Melvin was born in Auburn, WA on November 10, 1932 to Dr Roy and Mildred Rugg. He grew up in Kent, WA and graduated from the last graduating class of the old Kent-Meridian High School, in 1950, before the school moved up the hill to its current location in 1951. A mutual friend introduced him to his beloved future wife, Judith Olson, at a dance in the late 40’s. They were married in 1953 and celebrated their 64th Anniversary shortly before Judith passed in January 2017.
Melvin graduated from the University of Washington Dental School in 1956. After graduation, he joined the Navy as a Dentist and was posted to San Diego, CA, taking his family with him. After his discharge, he moved the family back to Kent, WA and joined his father Roy Rugg and uncle Porter Rugg in their Dental practice located in downtown Kent. Melvin built a new office building on the East Hill of Kent in the late 60’s and moved his dental practice there. He retired in 2002 after 46 years of Dentistry.
Melvin was an active member of the Kent Kiwanis Club for more than 55 years. He was a life member of the American and Washington State Dental Associations and a respected member of the American Academy of Gold Foil Operators, in Dentistry. He enjoyed skiing, fishing, boating, working on various household projects and puttering around in the garden of his Auburn & Gig Harbor properties. He was happiest when helping others, a loving, caring, gentle soul, always a gentleman with a wonderful dry sense of humor. A devoted servant of God, his humble, compassionate and generous nature touched many lives. He will be greatly missed by his loved ones, friends and all who knew him.
Melvin’s greatest joy was his family. He cherished his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is survived by his sister Bernice Stencil and husband Chet; SIL – Clarin Blessing Olsen and husband Wayne; daughter Elizabeth Cooper and husband Geoffrey; son James Rugg and wife Kipling; 3 grandchildren, Caroline Weatherford and husband Trey, Meredith Zapffe and husband Davis and Thomas Rugg and wife Celina; 6 great-grandchildren, Scarlett, Savannah, Juliette, Haisten, Lavender and Henry; and niece Karen Stencil.
A memorial in Dr Mel’s honor will be held at Kent Covenant Church, 12010 SE 240th St, Kent, WA, on Saturday March 9 at 1:00pm. Reception to follow.
Remembrances, please consider making a donation to a charity of your choosing, please do not send flowers.
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