Michael A. Ruyter

Michael A. Ruyter August 8, 1972 – September 17, 2025 Michael A. Ruyter, 53, of Williams, Arizona, passed away on Wednesday September 17, 2025. Born in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada on August 8, 1972, Michael was the beloved son of Theodorus (Ted) Ruyter and Terry Lynne Burt. A man of integrity, intelligence, and deep devotion to his family, Michael lived a life rooted in purpose and generosity. He graduated from Simon Fraser University in British Columbia with a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, later earning his Master's of Taxation from Golden Gate University. A Canadian Chartered Accountant and Certified Public Accountant in the U.S., Michael built a successful career in public accounting, working at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) and Ernst & Young (EY) in Phoenix, AZ. His professional focus was primarily on the mining and software industries, where he served clients with diligence and professionalism. He later continued his career as International, Director of Tax for Axway, Inc. In addition to his work in finance, Michael also pursued his passion for building and design. He co-founded Sonoran Signature Builders LLC with a close friend, where together they built custom homes that reflected Michael's unique vision and attention to detail. He loved to build things and took pride in turning ideas into something lasting and tangible. Just prior to his passing, Michael completed the construction of his own beautiful home nestled in the sanctuary of the ponderosa pines of Williams, Arizona. It was a place he designed with care and intention - where he planned to spend his retirement enjoying nature, peace, and the outdoors he so deeply loved. Michael was more than his career. He was an involved, hands-on father who poured his energy into the lives of his children. Passionate about the things they loved, Michael encouraged his children to pursue their interests and gave them both freedom and support to follow their dreams. whether golfing together, going to concerts together, watching his son play hockey, or cheering on the soccer field, he never missed a moment to support them in their activities and will be remembered as a father who was always present, proud, and deeply involved. He married Pamela Dawn Wankel of Canada on July 17, 1999, and during their 11-year marriage, they welcomed two sons: Jackson David Ruyter (who passed away shortly after birth) and Nathan Cameron Ruyter (21). Later, on February 26, 2011, Michael married Colleen Joy (Weeks) Kelley. During their 11 years together, he faithfully supported and helped raise two stepchildren, J ade Sydney Kelley (22) and Ethan Ty Kelley (25), and together they welcomed a son, Lance Michael Ruyter (13). Michael also had a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors. As a young boy growing up in beautiful British Columbia, he would run home from school, bike to his favorite fishing hole until it was dark, come home with a fresh bounty every night - a passion that stayed with him throughout his life. He found joy in working in the yard, walking his dogs Milo, Winston and Reggie, cooking and living a life enriched by nature, quiet contemplation and simple joys. Michael will be remembered for his unwavering work ethic, quiet strength, service to family and the integrity with which he lived his life. His presence, guidance, and love leave an unforgettable mark on all who knew him. Michael was preceded in death by his beloved sister, Michelle Cathleen Ruyter, and his son, Jackson David Ruyter. He is survived by his sons, Nathan Cameron Ruyter and Lance Michael Ruyter; his parents, Theodorus (Ted) Ruyter and Terry Lynne Burt; his sister, Tina Marie Ruyter; and his fiancée, Gail Griemsmann and her daughter Nadia Griemsmann. He is also remembered fondly by extended family, friends, and all whose lives he touched. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at Messinger Pinnacle Peak Mortuary, 8555 E Pinnacle Peak Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85255. A live-stream of Michael's service can be watched here. A viewing will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by the memorial service at 10:00 a.m. A light reception will follow. A graveside service will take place at Paradise Memorial Gardens 9300 E. Shea Blvd Scottsdale, AZ 85260 at 1:00 p.m.