Michael R. Ruzicka

Michael R. Ruzicka ObituaryIt is with immeasurable sadness that I announce the unexpected death of Michael Ruzicka at our home on February 10, 2025. Michael grew up in Diamond Bar, CA, in L.A. County and spoke fondly and often of his time there-working at Tower Records and graduating from UC Santa Cruz. After some time in Birmingham and Nashville, and after earning his Masters in Library Science, Mike found his home in Chicago. He met his wife, Kate, in 2016 and, in the same year, began working at Booklist at the American Library Association-a job which gave him immense pride and satisfaction.
Michael was known for his kind, generous, and easygoing nature, his biting wit, and his great hair. A poet by training, he loved music, art, film, and architecture, and many a night was spent discussing how one work, artist, or genre fit within broader historical trends. He was a nerd's nerd-yet undeniably cool. He loved our silly cats to a ridiculous degree, and we so often remarked to one another how much we loved our home, our life, and marriage together. He was so proud of our house and being a gracious host anytime we had people over, even for the most casual gathering.
I know no one who was sweeter, kinder, or more generous. An attentive son who often traveled to help his mother when needed, he did everything in his power to make others' lives easier and better. Michael is survived by his wife Kate Babka; his mother, Marilyn Baylies Ruzicka; and his brother, Dan Ruzicka.
There will be a memorial gathering on Saturday, February 15, from 12-2 p.m., at Tohle Funeral Home, 4325 W. Lawrence Ave., Chicago, IL 60630. Information available at 773-685-4400 or tohlefuneralhome.com
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It is with immeasurable sadness that I announce the unexpected death of Michael Ruzicka at our home on February 10, 2025. Michael grew up in Diamond Bar, CA, in L.A. County and spoke fondly and often of his time there-working at Tower Records and graduating from UC Santa Cruz. After some time in Birmingham and Nashville, and after earning his Ma