Retired Bensalem Firefighter, EMT Passes Away

BENSALEM, PA — A retired firefighter and EMT of the Bensalem Fire Rescue and Cornwells Fire Company passed away on Friday, March 5.

Joseph F. Ruggiero, Jr., passed away on Saturday, March 5. According to the Bensalem Fire Rescue, Ruggiero was an original member of the fire rescue's career staff until his retirement in 2018.

A lifelong resident of Bensalem, he was a wrestler and football player at Bensalem High School. He later served as an assistant wrestling coach for Bensalem and Neshaminy High Schools.

Ruggiero was also a lifelong member of the Cornwells Fire Company, where he served as both it's Chief and President. He also worked with the Nottingham Fire Company.

"The Officers and Members of Cornwells Fire Company regretfully announce the untimely passing of past chief, past president and life member Joe Ruggiero Jr.," Cornwells Fire Company- Station 16 said in a Facebook post. "We send our deepest condolences to his family and friends."

Ruggiero leaves behind two sons, a granddaughter, nieces, and nephews, as well as his parents and brother.

Family and friends are invited to the viewing at Tomlinson Funeral Home, located on 2207 Bristol Pike in Bensalem. The viewing will take place on Saturday, March 12 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. followed by the service at 11:00 a.m.

Ruggiero will be interred at Resurrection Cemetery.