August Alexander Ruf

Augie was born on January 18, 1938, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Paul and Amalia “Mollie” Ruf. He attended Westport High School, where he met the love of his life, Mary. They were high school sweethearts who graduated with the Class of 1958 and married that same year. Together they shared nearly 68 years of marriage and built a life centered on faith, family, hard work, and love. Through every season of life, they remained devoted to one another. During the final days of his life, Mary never left his side, reflecting the deep love they shared throughout their lives together.

In 1957, Augie became the owner and president of Ruf Construction. He and Mary made their home in Lenexa, Kansas, where they lived for over 50 years and raised their family. Ruf Construction was truly a family business, and for many years Augie worked alongside his wife, sons, and daughter, taking great pride in building not only a successful company but also a strong family legacy. Through Ruf Construction, he helped shape the Kansas City area and earned the respect of those who worked alongside him.

Beyond his work and family, Augie had a special love for animals and enjoyed having them around throughout his life. He loved hosting parties and gatherings, bringing family and friends together to share food, laughter, and good times. Known as the life of the party, he brought energy, stories, and a welcoming spirit wherever he went. His outgoing personality, warm heart, and ability to connect with people made him a friend to many and a joy to be around.

Augie was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He believed in treating people fairly, working hard, and persevering through life’s challenges. No matter what obstacles came his way, he maintained a positive attitude and rarely complained, choosing instead to focus on what could be done rather than what could not. He taught his family the value of strength, responsibility, resilience, and determination. One of the greatest gifts he gave his children and grandchildren was the example of never giving up, picking yourself up when life knocked you down, and continuing to move forward.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Amalia “Mollie” Ruf; his brothers, Bill Ruf, Jake Ruf, and John Ruf; and his sister, Helen Hadley.

Augie is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Ruf; his sister, Jeanne Ruf; his brother-in-law, Del Hadley; his sisters-in-law, Sondra Ruf and Maureen Ruf; his children, Troy Ruf (Nancy), York Ruf (Helen), and Sherri Berthold (Roland); his grandchildren, Tyler, August, Andre, Autumn, Aubrey, Eli (Taylor), and Nick, and many cousins, nieces, nephews, great-grand children, extended family members, and friends.

Those who knew Augie will remember his competitive spirit, determination, positive outlook, and unwavering commitment to his family. He was known by so many people throughout the Kansas City area and made lasting friendships wherever he went. His presence will be deeply missed, but the lessons he taught and the example he set will live on through those who loved him.

He will be remembered with love, gratitude, and respect.

Visitation will be held at Floral Hills Funeral Home and Cemetery, 7000 BLUE RIDGE BLVD, KANSAS CITY, MO 64133, US, on June 28, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm.

A Funeral Service will take place at Floral Hills Funeral Home and Cemetery, 7000 BLUE RIDGE BLVD, KANSAS CITY, MO 64133, US, on June 28, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm.