05/18/2026
Jeffry J. Armbruster, current Lorain County Administrator and longtime public servant, passed away Friday, May 15, 2026.
Armbruster dedicated decades of service to the residents of Lorain County and North Ridgeville. He served as Mayor of North Ridgeville from 1989 to 1995, later returning to public service as Safety-Service Director from 2009 to 2023 under Mayors David Gillock and Kevin Corcoran. He also served on North Ridgeville City Council and represented Ohio’s 13th Senate District in the Ohio Senate from 1998 to 2006.
During his tenure in the Ohio Senate, Armbruster served as Chairman of the Senate Highways and Transportation Committee and the Ohio Turnpike Oversight Committee. He also served as Vice Chair of the Insurance, Commerce and Labor Committee and the Health, Human Services and Aging Committee. Beyond public office, he was also a respected local businessman who owned and operated several gas stations over the years.
When appointed Lorain County Administrator in February 2023, Armbruster said he hoped to help Lorain County “grow and prosper.” He immediately went to work modernizing county operations, implementing progressive ideas, and improving efficiency through technology. Among his many accomplishments were expanding staffing at the Lorain County 911 Center, modernizing employee timekeeping and building access systems at the Lorain County Administration Building, and encouraging the adoption of a county vehicle leasing program. Many initiatives he spearheaded remain ongoing and will continue benefiting Lorain County for years to come.
Jeff Armbruster will be remembered for his professionalism, expertise, wit, and unwavering commitment to doing what was right. His leadership, vision, and dedication left a lasting impact on Lorain County and the many people fortunate enough to work alongside him.
Our deepest sympathies are extended to his wife, children, grandchildren, family, friends, and all who knew him.
“There are those who leave an indelible mark on our communities long after they have gone. Their legacy is not measured in monuments, but in the countless lives they touched and the better world they left behind.” Rest in Peace Jeff.