William W. Ruoff

William W. Ruoff, 77, of Independence, MO passed away on October 13, 2005 at his home. A visitation will be held from 7-8:30 p.m. on Sunday, October 16, at the Speaks Suburban Chapel. The service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, October 17 at the South Crysler Restoration Branch, Independence, MO. Burial at Mound Grove Cemetery. Contributions may be made to the John Knox Village Hospice. Bill was born on September 21, 1928 in St. Joseph, MO to William and Hazel (Miller) Ruoff, both of whom preceded him in death. He grew up in St. Joseph, graduating from Central High School in 1946. He served in the United States Army in Korea for two years after which he attended Graceland College. It was there he met his wife, Florence Jean Shoemaker, of 55 years. They were married in Coldwater, MI, June 10, 1950. Bill received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Marketing and Sales from the University of Denver in 1952. He was employed in sales and sales management positions for 38 years, including positions with Continental Baking Company, Electronic Business Equipment and Tempo. Bill was a dedicated Elder in The Church of Jesus Christ, South Crysler Restoration Branch, and spent a great deal of time in the Daytime Ministry Program. His faith was very important to him and guided him through the good times and the challenges. He proudly gave of his time as a Hospice volunteer, both here and in Texas, where he and his wife resided in the winters. He enjoyed family, camping and boating, traveling, sports, reading, grocery shopping, and most of all, just being with his family and friends. He became "chief cook� after his retirement. Bill is survived by his wife, Jean Ruoff; three sons, Steven (Glenda), Mark (Meloney) and Tim (Cindy) Ruoff; one daughter, Jill Ruoff; six grandchildren, Kimie (Kevin Hicks), Chad (Heather), Amy, Jenna, Clairissa and Sophie; three great grandchildren, Cade and Carson Ruoff, and Jalen Hicks; two sisters, Carol Kirkwood and Judy Groom (Doyle); brother-in-law, Larry Shoemaker; and many nieces and nephews. Family and friends will sadly miss Bill, but we know that the Lord was waiting for him with outstretched arms to take him into His Kingdom.