William Ruf

Mr. Willie,
Will, Mom, Dad and I will miss you so much! You were like a grandpa to me! I still remember when you would bring us little ceaser's on our pizza nights! I know you are up there with Grandpa! We love and miss you!

I'll never forget Willie Ruf, and I'm so sorry he's gone. I was stationed with Willie many times over the years, and he was one hell of a good guy.

Willie was a great friend and mentor to thousands, as well as a great Soldier. He'll have left a lasting mark on the Army and particularly Army Aviation. That fact should be a source of pride and consolation to you, his family, and to his many, many friends.

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Enterprise and Fort Rucker have lost a favorite son with the passing of this great individual. In the many years that I knew and worked with Willie, there was never an unfriendly moment or unkind word from him. It is with much pride that I join the ranks of so many others who were honored to call him a friend.

We will miss you Willie.

Bill G. Lockwood, Colonel, USA (Ret)

I was very saddened to hear of my OLE PAL Willie's passing and I just want you know how schocked and how sorry I am to hear it.
No expression of sympathy--no matter how deeply felt--can help much right now, but I had to let you know that my thoughts are with you.
Willie and I refereed many high school football games and many, many high school and college basketball games together and he was always respected by the coaches, players and fans for his high ethical standards and his...

A great aviator and card-playing 'shark'. I miss our games in the tent in Beirut, Lebanon. We'll all miss you.
Bob

It is with certainty that our Willie is still flying, smiling and being sincere with all who knew him--whether for a long or short time.

This world needs more men of his character, dedication and personality!

It was an honor to know and serve with you, Good Willie!!! I'm sure you are resting in eternal sleep, so well earned and deserved.

Condolences to your family!