Report of the President's Commission on the Assassination of President John F. Kennedy

第二章 With the assistance of Agent in Charge Sorrels of the

This chapter traces Jack Ruby’s life and activities from his San Francisco years through his relocation to Dallas, examining his reputation, employment history, labor union involvement, military service, and the circumstances surrounding his move to Dallas. The investigation draws on extensive witness testimony, documentary evidence, and law enforcement records to assess Ruby’s character, associations, and potential connections to organized crime.

San Francisco Reputation and Social Activities

Ruby, known as “Sparky” to his San Francisco acquaintances, was generally regarded as well-mannered, soft-spoken, and meticulously dressed. Friends and a former crew manager described him as honest, likable, and forthright, with a fondness for sports and law enforcement but no reputation for violence or a vicious temper. He associated with Jewish friends and showed little religious interest, meeting Virginia Belasco—granddaughter of playwright David Belasco—at a Jewish community center dance in 1936. He also told a longtime girlfriend that Virginia Fitzgerald was the only other woman he had considered marrying.

Chicago (1937-43)

After returning to Chicago, Ruby experienced a period of unemployment but claimed to work as a “traveling salesman.” He supported himself through ticket scalping and reselling watches and small items, described by a close friend as “shady” but “legitimate.” He was able to maintain a normal life without financial help from family or friends during this period.