P.O. Ricahrd milla (ret) 08/1953 - 02/2023

We regret to inform you of the passing of long time member & Transit Alumni Ret. P.O. Helmuth Ruppe,  Helmuth was appointed to the Transit Police on July 20, 1968 and retired August 26, 1989.

He leaves behind his wife, Ingrid.

Funeral services: Viewing

Friday, February 3, 2023 from 2-6 PM

Krauss Funeral Home
1097 Hempstead Tpke, Franklin Square NY 516-352-2080

Condolences may be sent to Ingrid at 39 Caroline Ave, Elmont NY 11003-5017

Helmuth was a long time member of the Retirees Association, FOP Lodge 317 and The LI Shields.

Helmuth, better known as “Big Red” was a very active and “Good” cop. He worked in Districts 4, 1, and City-Wide A/C. He was a familiar face at every Transit Police Florida Reunion with his wife Ingrid,  Additionally, Helmuth frequently attended Police Week Events in Washington D.C. and generously contributed to numerous police causes. He died on January 30th at the age of 79. 

A few thoughts from a 42 & 8 Alumni that served with Helmuth:

I remember that giant of a man who whose mere presence made the rats on 42 street and eighth scurry away and hide in fear.

Having established that he owned the space and everything in it- rarely was there.

A need to use a stick except to prod a sleeping drunk awake.

The other -of many sides of him, was generous and caring for those who had so much less than him

In those days, when not everyone had a gun and there were times when we had to roll around on the platforms-he saved my ass on more than a few occasions. Those of us left from those days are few, But ,thank god for the memories that remain vivid. God bless him

Sal conti district1 retired

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Ingrid. May Helmuth Rest in Peace.

Helmuth’s obituary is expected to be posted soon at the funeral home's remembrance page:  https://kraussfuneralhome.com/tribute/all-services/index.html