Margaret Ann Ruffner

Margaret Ann Ruffner
Loving Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Sister, Aunt, and Friend October 2, 1950 – June 29, 2025
Margaret "Peggy" Ann Ruffner of Troy, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 29, 2025, at the age of 74.
Family was at the heart of Margaret's life. She poured her time and energy into nurturing relationships across generations and found her greatest joy in being a Nana, mother, wife, sister, aunt, and friend.
She is survived by her devoted husband of nearly 36 years, Harold "Hal" Ruffner; her beloved son, James; and her cherished stepsons, Bradley (Mandi) and Neal (Mallory). Margaret treasured her role as Nana to Tyler, Meah, Kyle, and Dresden. She is also survived by her sister and best friend, Kathleen (Michael). Margaret was a caring aunt and "bonus mom" to her nephews, Stephen (Lyndsay) and Andrew (Tina), and took great pride in her six great-nieces and -nephews.
Born in Pontiac, Michigan, Margaret was the daughter of Leo Joseph McKeever and Vivian Margaret McKeever. She spent her childhood in Northville and later years in Brighton. From an early age, she developed a deep love of reading and writing-interests that reflected her sharp intellect and remained with her throughout her life.
Margaret earned a hands-on degree in business and went on to build a distinguished career in the construction industry. She finished her professional journey at Limbach, where she was highly respected as a financial expert and quality control manager before happily retiring. Throughout it all, she kept her family at the center of her life, leading and nurturing them with the same dedication and strength she brought to every role she held.
Creative and curious by nature, Margaret frequently embraced new hobbies. She delighted in puzzles and many crafts, including sewing and knitting, and recently discovered a joy for watercolor painting. She played golf in the warmer months and bowled throughout the winter. A passionate gardener, she transformed her backyard into a scenic haven for morning coffee views, cocktail hours, and family gatherings.
Margaret had a deep affection for animals, enjoyed feeding wild birds, and is missed by their sweet dog, Riley. She is now reunited with their dogs, Luke and Callie, who were loyal companions for many years.
Known for her quick wit, generosity, and unwavering support for those she loved, Margaret was also a natural hostess with a keen eye for both personal style and home decor. She created memorable gatherings throughout the year, centered around exceptional homecooked meals and thoughtful, elegant touches.
Margaret married Hal in 1989, at the Little Stone Church on Mackinac Island. Together, they built a busy life filled with fun, family, and adventure. She had a talent for planning memorable trips, both local and global. In retirement, they grew fond of traveling across the country in their "mobile cottage."
Family and friends are invited to gather on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, from 2:00 - 8:00 PM at A.J. Desmond & Sons Funeral Home (2600 Crooks Rd., Troy, MI). Visitation continues on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at 10:00 AM, followed by an 11:00 funeral service at the same location. Margaret will then be laid to rest at Guardian Angel Cemetery in Oakland Township, MI.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Leader Dogs for the Blind or Forgotten Harvest.