William Burnell Ruddell

William Burnell Ruddell, 87, passed away on November 9, 2026, at Bay Ridge Assisted Living in Traverse City, Michigan. He was born on July 28, 1939, in Flint, Michigan to the late Burnell and Eloise (McCracken) Ruddell.

Bill’s life was marked by dedication to his family, his profession, his faith, and the communities he called home. A graduate of Flint Northern High School’s class of 1957, he went on to attend Michigan Technological University in Houghton, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in 1964. That same year, on September 5, he married the love of his life, Joan Murray, at St. Vincent DePaul in Shepherd. Together, they built a life centered on love and family and raised four children: Anne, Mary, John, and Peter.

Professionally, Bill was self-employed and the owner of Ruddell Engineering from 1972 to 1996. His work reflected both independence and commitment, and he took pride in the career he built through his knowledge and effort. He was also a life member of the Michigan Society of Professional Surveyors, a lasting reflection of his connection to his field and the respect he held for his profession.

Bill also gave generously of his time in public and parish life. He served as Village President of Shepherd from 1972 to 1974, contributing to the life of the community during those years. His faith remained an important part of his life as well. He was a member of St. Vincent DePaul Parish from 1970 to 1993 and, beginning in 1993, a member of Sacred Heart Parish.

Bill leaves behind his children: Anne (Ken) Hall of Traverse City, Mary (Jim) Crawley of Caledonia, John (Jennifer) Ruddell of St. Joseph, and Peter (Caroline) Ruddell of East Lansing; grandchildren, Catherine (Louis), Grace (Jacob), Mackenzie (Anna), Charles (Nicole), Alex (Carson), Andrew (Madeline), Baylee (David), Izak, Grant, Elisabeth and Nora; great-grandchildren, Colton, Campbell, Frankie Lou, Hutchinson, Elliot, Jaxon, Avery, Sadie and 3 babies due in 2027; and brother, Douglas (Brenda) Ruddell.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Joan Ruddell, in 2015; sisters, Sally (Ed) Mather, Jackie (DeWayne) Lahar, and Sandra Ochodnicky.

A Funeral Mass for Bill will be celebrated at 10 am Friday, November 13, 2026, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Fr. Loren Kalinowski will preside. All are invited to a luncheon at Lincoln Reception Center immediately following. The family will receive friends at Charles R. Lux Family Funeral Home on Thursday, November 12, from 4-7 p.m., with the rosary beginning at 6:30 p.m. Visitation continues at the church one hour before Mass. Bill will be laid to rest in Calvary Cemetery next to his beloved wife, Joan.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Michigan Society of Professional Surveyors’ scholarship fund. Envelopes are available at the funeral home.

Above all, Bill will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and family man whose life was rooted in enduring love, steady service, and deep commitment. He will always be remembered for his quick wit, which could turn any conversation into a laugh. He was always willing to keep a watchful eye (wink) on anyone who asked for his help. His memory will remain a blessing to those who knew him and loved him.