Michael Ruff

Michael Ruff, 61, born and raised in Hartford, Connecticut to Willie and Ernestine Ruff, transitioned peacefully in the presence of his loving family on Tuesday morning, August 22, 2023.
There isn't a single room that wasn't made instantly brighter by his megawatt smile, larger than life personality, and penchant for tasteful (and sometimes tasteless) corny jokes. Anybody remember the blue elephant joke?! During his high school years at Weaver High (Class of 1980), Michael was a star running back. This led to him earning a football scholarship, where he played for Langston University in Langston, Oklahoma. His love for sports was manifested in his die-hard admiration for the New York Knicks and the Miami Dolphins.
Throughout his life, Michael was not only known for sports, but also for his impeccable ability to throw a party! Whether it was a summertime cookout, a Super Bowl party, or the annual Ruff Family Christmas parties that he hosted with his then wife, (Barbara) Missy. Michael was the life of the party. His magnetic energy could be felt whether he was holding the video camera, recording all that was happening, or if he was on the grill showcasing his culinary skills.
Michael was a devoted son, brother, and uncle, but his greatest role was that of father to his one and only son Marques Jerrell Ruff - his pride and joy! He leaves to mourn his son, his ex-wife and lifelong companion Barbara aka Missy, his brother Willie Jr., his sisters Diane and LaVern (Nate), his brother-in-law Al, his Aunt Eunice, Uncles Richard and Bobby, his nephews Andre (Diana), Rondell, Jerome, Anthony, TJ and Kobe, a loving niece Venisa, and a host of cousins, great nephews, nieces, and friends whom he adored. He is predeceased by his parents, his sister Rose Quinones, and nieces Tiffany and Laura Quinones.
The family wishes to extend its deepest gratitude to the staff of the Hartford Hospital Intensive Care Unit, DaVita Inc., and his supportive friends at GCA, especially Nelson M.