Nathaniel Nate yo han Rugh

Nathaniel “Nate” Yo Han Rugh, 72, passed away unexpectedly on October 9, 2025 at his residence in Moriarty NM. He was born January 20, 1953 in Korea. Nate moved to the United States when Emerson and Beulah Rugh adopted him. Nate was preceded in death by his by his parents and is survived by his brother, Phillip (Kit), sister Ann (Jerry), longtime partner Susan Werbeck and several close friends.

Nate graduated from Oswego state university with a degree in education. He moved to Las Vegas Nevada in 1978 where he taught junior high and high school English for 30 years. He coached football and wrestling at several high schools and youth programs. Nate was a member of the Southern Nevada Officials Association where he refereed high school wrestling and volleyball.

After Nate retired, he and Susan relocated to Moriarty NM where he kept busy by substitute teaching, working with computers and visiting friends.

Per Nate’s wishes, there will be no services and his ashes will be scattered in the White River Narrows which is located approximately 110 miles north of Las Vegas Nevada on state route 318. The date and time of the scattering is going to be December 17th 2025 at 2:00pm. Anyone who wishes to attend may contact Mike McGinnis at mmg4878@yahoo.com for additional information.