Michael Lee Ruggles: 1938-2025

VICKSBURG, Miss. — Michael was born to  Fred William Ruggles and Mary Catherine (Waltzer) Ruggles in Danville, Illinois.  He was the third of six children. He graduated from Danville High School and attended Illinois State Normal University on a wrestling scholarship.

Michael enlisted in the Army and attained the rank of Corporal.  He was married to Adrienne May Spencer in January 8, 1966 until her passing July 22, 1993. They raised a family while he worked in the insurance industry as a Safety Engineer.  He retired from Allied Insurance Company in Des Moines, Iowa as a Senior Vice President in 1999 and moved to Venice, Florida for 15 years.

He moved to Vicksburg, Mississippi in 2014.  He joined Saint Michael Catholic Church and became an active member of the Knights of Columbus, Council 898 and Assembly 558.  He was a member of the Vicksburg Art Association as well as a Life Master in contract bridge.

He is survived by sons, James Ruggles, Gregory Ruggles (Haunani), David Ruggles (Kathy), daughter, Adrienne Eckstein (Jeff) and grandchildren, James Ruggles (Lynn), Brenton Ruggles, Kimberly Duy, Jackie Wilkerson (Wes), John Rapacz (Brittany), Luke Eckstein, Adrienne Eckstein and Adam Eckstein, as well as numerous nephews, nieces and great grandchildren.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 23 at Fisher-Riles Funeral Home, 5000 Indiana Avenue from 9:30 am until 10:30 am.  A mass of christian burial will follow at 11 am at Saint Michael Catholic Church, 100 St. Michael Place with the Rev. Robert Dore officiating.

Donations may be made to the Knights of Columbus Council 898, P. O. Box 1003, Vicksburg, MS 39181.

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