Obituary of Joshua R. Ruddick

Joshua R. Ruddick of Tucson, AZ, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes on August 27, 2023.  He leaves behind his wife, Emily (Floor), daughter, Isadora (14), and son, Cassius (11).  He is also survived by his mother, Mary Frances Ruddick of Tucson, brother, Samuel, of Auburn, AL, many relatives, friends, co-workers, and former students.  Josh was preceded in death by his father, Richard.  

A passionate social justice advocate, environmentalist and student of the world, Josh spent nearly 15 years as a high school science instructor before joining the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Arizona Project WET, as Tucson Program Coordinator in 2021.  Josh actively participated in many of APW's professional development workshops and served as a mentor teacher in the Recharge the Rain program.  Josh was a co-founder, instructor, and former President of the Pima County Chapter of the Arizona Master Naturalist Association.  Teaching was Josh's second career after he spent 17 years in executive management positions in the healthcare industry. 

In addition to Tucson, Josh spent important years in Sacramento, CA and Denver, CO.  His hobbies and interests included the International Hash House Harriers, abalone fishing, skydiving, jazz, travel, and more.  He was happiest outside, enjoying nature in all its glory. 

Josh earned a bachelor of arts in philosophy from George Mason University and masters in education and conservation biology from the University of Arizona.  He was dedicated to preserving native plants, animals, and wild places, and reversing the impacts of climate change.  He also worked to ensure that marginalized populations had access to the outdoors and the opportunities available for its preservation. 

The Arizona Master Naturalists Association has established a fund to support his children's future and to plant trees in his name:  https://givebutter.com/bJkV1O.  The family also suggests donations be made to any organizations supporting indigenous or marginalized people, as well as native plants, animals, landscapes, and water conservation.  For example, Josh was actively involved with the University of Arizona Citizen Science Jaguar and Ocelot Montioring Project:  https://www.wildcatresearch.arizona.edu/.

On, On, Blue Skies, Josh.  The world is a less colorful place without you.