William Ruark

William "Rocky" Rufus Ruark, 69, of Cape Girardeau departed this life Thursday, Aug. 17, 2023, at Chaffee Nursing Center after a long battle with cancer.

Rocky was born June 20, 1954, in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, to Rufus William and Lucille Hester Ruark.

He worked in a variety of industries from construction to maintenance and custodial work, with his last job being at Jackson Junior High School before his retirement.

For those that knew Rocky, he never was without a smile or a kind word to share. He loved the Kentucky Wildcats and St. Louis Cardinals, and being a part of fantasy football. Rocky made many memories watching and bantering over football, basketball and baseball with his family throughout the years. His catch phrase, "Peace and love", will live on in the hearts of many.

Survivors include two brothers, Mark (Rhonda) Ruark of Cape Girardeau and Jeff (Michelle) Ruark of East New Market, Maryland; a sister, Charlene (John) Edwards of Cambridge, Maryland; and three nephews, Jay (Candice) Ruark of Nashville, Tennessee, Nick (Vira) Ruark of Cape Girardeau and Nathan (Laurel) Ruark of Sumpter, South Carolina.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

At Rocky's request, there will be a celebration of his life from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26, at Cape Girardeau Elks Lodge No. 639. An additional celebration of life will be from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 9, at Knockum Hill Bar-B-Que in Hopkinsville.

Memorial contributions may be given to Saxony Lutheran High School or Southeast Cancer Center.

Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.