Michael Joseph Ruzicka

Michael Joseph Ruzicka, beloved husband, father, brother, uncle and friend, passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 26, 2025, in Florida.

Mick, as he was known, was born June 19, 1953, in Springfield, Missouri. He was the third child born to Emma and Alois Ruzicka. Growing up, Mick attended St Joseph School and graduated from St Agnes Regional High School. During his school years. Mick would often serve during mass as an altar boy at St Agnes Cathedral.

Mick worked for the City of Springfield Public Works Department for 38 years. His love of running heavy equipment made him an asset to his employer and friends needing assistance. Mick consistently volunteered for storm clean-ups, the United Way Day of Caring, City functions including the annual 4th grade scavenger hunts, Salvation Army bell ringing, Candyland at the Footbridge, Firefall, Springfield Citizens Police Academy and Career Day at public schools where he would show off his skills with a snowplow.

After his career with the City, Mick retired and moved to Florida in 2014. During his time in Florida, he was able to fulfill his dream adventures of riding his Harley year-round and being closer to the beach and cruise ports. He continued his love of horseshoes, playing three times a week in the Cypress Lakes community while making great friends in the process.

Before the move, Mick's favorite pastime was fishing the beautiful lakes of southwest Missouri. He often fed fried crappie and bass to as many as 80 family members and friends. This usually included a couple kegs of beer and lasted into the early morning hours.

His love of baseball and softball was immense. Mick was a huge St. Louis Cardinal and Kansas City Royals baseball fan. He was a pitcher and home run hitter in the local AAA slow pitch softball league. He brought home many awards from state and local tournaments including several trophies for being named the Most Valuable Player. After his competitive softball days were over, he continued playing with lifelong friends on the second Saturday in October. The Old Farts Game, as it came to be known, would be held at the St. Agnes baseball field. Teams would be chosen but the youngest of the group had to play outfield because they could still run. Mick would pitch for both teams and would have his 64-ounce mug of strawberry margarita with him on the mound. That way he could tell everyone he only had one drink! He was sure to taunt the batter but had the reflexes of a cat if you hit the ball at him! The Old Farts game continued for many years until injury or fear of injury sidelined the entire group.

Mick was also an avid duck and pheasant hunter. In fact, one year he even substituted deep fried pheasant nuggets in place of the chicken in his famous cashew chicken recipe. His mother, who was one of the best cooks ever, taught him how to bake bread, kolache, and cookies from scratch. Of course, Emma's crescent rolls with poppy seeds were beautiful creations, however it seemed Mick's would taste better because they were fluffier but somewhat uglier.

If there was anyone with a keen sense of humor, it would be Mick, second only to his niece Kelley's jokes. Once while wearing a Denver Bronco's football jersey at a Kansas City Royal's baseball game, some guys sitting behind him thought he was Lyle Alzado. So, they bought him beer for most of the game, even asking for his autograph. He would occasionally put on a gorilla mask and hide in the coat closet waiting for Denise to come home to hang up her coat. As Denise screamed, Mick would laugh loudly.

Mick is survived by his wife of 42 years, Denise (Reed) Ruzicka; children Lorin Pope and Zachary Ruzicka; brothers Gene Ruzicka (Kathy); and Bob Ruzicka (Laura) and their amazing children. He is preceded in death by his sister, Kathryn Ruzicka (May 24, 1961); Father Alois Ruzicka (January 18, 1986) and Mother Emma (Francka) Ruzicka, (May 28, 2015). The family Pomeranians, Bubu and Rucy, were a great comfort and companions. They will miss their afternoon naps on his lap or at his feet. Mick has an enormous multitude of friends and cousins, too numerous to mention.

Funeral mass will be held on Friday, June 13th at 10:30 AM at St. Agnes Cathedral, 533 S Jefferson, Springfield MO 65806. A Celebration of Life will be held immediately after in the St. Agnes School cafeteria next door. Please make a donation to St. Agnes Cathedral or Catholic Charities of Southern Missouri 620 W Republic, Road Suite 103, Springfield, MO, 65807, in lieu of flowers.