Lafayette - Michael Gene Ruark, 69, Lafayette and a former resident of Attica, passed away in the Franciscan Health East Hospital, Lafayette, on Thursday, December 31, 2020, at 5:53 p.m. as a result of the COVID virus.
Mike, as he was known to family and friends, was born in Williamsport, Indiana on October 8, 1951. He was the son of the late Elmer and Betty (Osborn) Ruark. Mike was raised in Attica, graduating from Attica High School in 1970. He later moved to Lafayette, working at ALCOA for 31 years, retiring in 2002. Following his retirement from ALCOA, Mike worked as a crossing guard at the intersection of 18th and Teal Road from 2003 until his illness.
Mike was a member of the Lafayette Pentecostal Church. He participated in the Ambassadors Musical Group in Lafayette. He enjoyed camping and fishing and loved listening to the 60's music. He was a member of the ALCOA 25 year club in which he was a board member. He was a Master Gardener. He was a member of the Big Brother and Big Sister organization in Lafayette.
He was formerly married to Gayla Pearson.
He leaves behind his former wife, Gayla (Pearson) Livengood, Mesa, AZ; three step children, Devin Mickle, Raymond Mickle and Shari Mickle; a sister, Vicki Jarvis, Lafayette; a brother, Steven (Jami) Ruark, Mellott; a special friend, Donna Foster, Lafayette; six grandchildren, Emmy, Devin Jr., Andrew, Tallie, Ashley and Zoey; a great-granddaughter, Syrinity; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Friends may gather at the Maus Funeral Home, Attica, on Thursday, January 7th, from 5:00 p.m. until Mike's Celebration of Life service at 7:00 p.m. with Pastor Chris Black officiating. All attendees will be required to wear masks and keep social distancing from the family. Memorial contributions may be made to the Big Brothers Big Sisters, 2000 Elmwood Avenue, Lafayette, IN 47904.