Skip C Ruark

Skip C. Ruark, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, coach, and respected business owner, passed away on September 21, 2024, after a brief battle with cancer.
Born on November 14, 1953, in Fruitland, Maryland, Skip lived a life marked by dedication to his family, his work, and his community. Skip grew up in Fruitland, the town that he loved and never left.
Born to the late Margaret T. Ruark and Irvin Ruark. He was the brother to his late siblings, Margaret Amelia Ruark, Florence Elizabeth Ruark, and Dallas Irving Ruark.
Skip attended James M. Bennett High School, where he would later return to make a lasting impact as a soccer coach. He was a man who believed in the value of hard work and education, principles he carried throughout his life. In 1988, Skip married the love of his life, Donna, and they went on to enjoy 36 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams.
Together, they raised four children-Lori, Wayne, Brad, and Spike-who inherited their father's strong work ethic and passion for life. Skip was a doting grandfather to Ranae, Sara, Madelyn, Gabriel, Gage, Payton, Reese, and Torin, all of whom brought immeasurable joy to his life. Skip's entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish S.C. Ruark Enterprises, a business that thrived under his leadership and worked daily with his loving sons. His commitment to excellence and integrity in business earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and peers.
Beyond his business pursuits, Skip had a passion for soccer and dedicated 24 years to coaching the James M. Bennett High School soccer team. He also coached 17 years in the Wicomico Recreational league. His influence extended beyond the field as he mentored young athletes, teaching them the value of teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Skip will be remembered for his unwavering kindness, his infectious smile, and his generosity of spirit. He had a remarkable ability to inspire those around him, and his legacy will continue to live on through the many lives he touched.
He leaves behind his loving wife, Donna Ruark; his daughter Lori Smith and her husband Steve; his sons Wayne Ruark, Brad Ruark and Spike Ruark with their spouses Shannon and Kelley, respectively; his adored grandchildren, Ranae Disharoon and her husband Tyler, Sara Smith, Madelyn Smith, Gabriel Ruark, Gage Ruark, Payton Ruark, Reese Ruark, and Torin Ruark; his adored great-grandchildren Blakley and Reid Disharoon; his niece Angie Strouth; and Uncle Oran Taylor, who held a special place in his heart. Skip's life was a testament to the love and care he poured into everything he did. As we bid farewell to a man of great character and warmth, we celebrate the indelible imprint he has left on his family and his community.
A visitation will be held on Saturday October 5, 2024 from 1:00 – 3:00 pm with a memorial service to follow to honor and celebrate Skip's life at Holloway Funeral Home in Salisbury. Skip Ruark's memory will forever be cherished and his presence sorely missed.