Forever In Our Hearts: Curt Ruppel
February 11, 1961 – December 8, 2025
Curtis Alan Ruppel, beloved son, father, brother, and friend, passed away leaving behind a legacy of kindness, loyalty, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. Born on February 11, 1961, in
Dearborn, Michigan, Curt was the fourth of five children born to Gerald and Gloria (Detgen) Ruppel. He grew up in Roseville, where his childhood was filled with the warmth of a busy household and the close bonds he shared with his siblings. He attended Roseville High School, graduating with the Class of 1979, and carried with him the values of hard work and humility that would define his life.
After high school, Curt continued his education at Macomb Community College, where he earned his associate degree. Determined to build a secure and skilled career, he went on to attend trade school to study heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. Once licensed and certified as an HVAC technician, Curt began a remarkable forty–year career in the trade. A proud member of the Pipefitters Local 636, he worked his way up through dedication and expertise. His work ethic, reliability, and leadership earned him deep respect from his colleagues. Though he retired in 2023, Curt's stayed busy--he continued to take on projects here and there, always happy to help someone who needed his knowledge or skill.
Curt was an avid sports fan whose love for football-especially the Detroit Lions-was a defining part of his personality. Sundays were sacred, and each fall he looked forward to competing in fantasy football leagues with the same enthusiasm he brought to every part of his life. Whether celebrating wins or taking a loss to heart, he enjoyed every moment of the game.
He found peace in the outdoors and could often be found relaxing on his patio, savoring the quiet, the sunshine, and the simple pleasures of being outside. His easygoing nature made him the kind of person people gravitated toward. Curt had the rare gift of making friends wherever he went. Incredibly friendly and endlessly approachable, he was the friend people called to talk, laugh, or confide in. He cherished grabbing a bite to eat-lunch with the Warren maintenance guys, dinner with close friends, or a quick coffee just to catch up. Curt made everyone feel comfortable, valued, and welcomed. He was, in every sense of the word, a true friend.
More than anything, Curt was defined by his selflessness and generosity. He would do anything for the people he cared about, often putting their needs above his own without hesitation. Loyal, dependable, and quietly steadfast, he lived his life guided by genuine goodness.
Above all, Curt was a devoted father. His greatest joy and accomplishment was raising his daughters, Courtney and Allyson. He took immense pride in watching them grow into strong, independent women who serve others with compassion-values he instilled in them every day. He was present for every milestone, every activity, every moment that mattered. His daughters were his whole world, and he supported them with love, patience, and an endless supply of dad jokes that could bring a smile even on the hardest days. When Allyson brought home her French bulldog, Bentley, Curt happily welcomed the role of "dog grandpa," forming yet another bond that filled his home with joy.
Curt's life was one of quiet impact-steady, loving, and full of heart. He touched countless lives simply by being himself. His memory will forever be cherished by his daughters, his family, and the many friends who were blessed to know him. His legacy lives on in the laughter he shared, the kindness he gave so freely, and the unwavering love he offered to everyone lucky enough to call him theirs.
Curt is survived by his dear mother, Gloria Ruppel; cherished daughters, Courtney (Drake) Ruppel-Sluchak, and Allyson Ruppel; adored siblings, Dennis Ruppel, Keith (Pam) Ruppel, Lon (Kathleen) Ruppel, and Gail (George) Palmer; significant other, Toni Ziskie; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. Preceded in death by his father Gerald Ruppel.
Visitation for Curt will take place on Friday, December 12, 2025, from 12:00 pm until 8:00 pm at Bagnasco & Calcaterra Funeral Home, located at 13650 East Fifteen Mile Road,
Sterling Heights, Michigan 48312. A time for sharing of memories will take place at 6:30 pm on Friday, December 12, 2025, also at the funeral home.
May Curt rest in peace, knowing he was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.