Welcome to the memorial page for
Eileen M. Ruffing
November 8, 1955 ~ April 10, 2016 (age 60) 60 Years Old Light a Candle
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Message from Catherine Scott
April 26, 2016 9:13 PM
Please know caring thoughts and prayers are with Eileen's family during this time of great sorrow. Remember, not that Eileen has died, but that she lived, and her life gave you memories Too Beautiful to forget. Cherish those precious memories and may they bring a smile to your face and a calm to your heart. The Bible refers to 'death' as our enemy. Please find comfort in God's promise that soon death will no longer exist. Isaiah 25:8 promises, "He (God) will actually Swallow Up Death Forever." With my deepest and most sincere condolences.
A candle was lit by Adrianna Becker
on April 20, 2016 10:37 PM
Message from Becky
April 18, 2016 3:09 PM
Ms. Ruffing was a great inspiration to the Highland community. She first came to the band program when I was in high school, and she was both my boys band teacher, encouraging them each step of the way. I never heard a negative comment come from her about any of her students. She was always encouraging them to keep trying and to do their best. Thanks to her for dedicating so many years into the lives of not only my children, but many others. My condolences to the family, I know you will miss her presence in your lives.
Message from Kelly (Terry) O'Quin
April 17, 2016 4:21 AM
Eileen was just new at Highland when I was her student. She was my clarinet instructor and through many lessons helped me to earn the highest ratings for my solos at the district solo and ensemble competitions through the years. She taught me to really listen and put emotion into the music. After I graduated from high school, I saw her many times over the years. She worked with my mother-in-law, Lily O'Quin, for many years and always took the time to come over and speak with her at the Memorial Day services when the band played (at the Bloomfield Cemetery). I will really miss her!
Message from Andi Ebert (Peak)
April 15, 2016 10:47 PM
Praying for the family. She was a great band teacher. I had her in Elementary school at highland west in 5th grade. She taught me so much especially when I switched from flute to clarinet. She would take time out to help you if u needed help. God bless the family and friends. Surely will be missed.
Message from Diane Blischak
April 15, 2016 9:21 AM
Sorry to hear of Eileen's passing. She was a student of mine at BGSU and always a joy to be around. May her soul find rest among the saints in heaven. Lux Aeterna
Message from DONNA BAKER
April 16, 2016 9:54 AM
SURE WILL BE MISSED THIS WAS CECIL AN I TALKING BUDDY EVER NIGHT BEFORE SHE WENT HOME, EVERONE LOVED HER SO MUCH
A candle was lit by Lynne hemenway
on April 15, 2016 8:19 AM
Message from Roberta "Bertie" Winemiller
April 14, 2016 8:07 PM
With deepest sympathy. Eileen was an incredibly special person - kind, talented, loving, patient, intelligent, spiritual. She lived her beliefs and will be sorely missed. We are all the better for knowing her. Rest in peace faithful and loving servant.
Message from The Keefer Family
April 14, 2016 6:28 PM
"Your music will live on with your students."
Loren and Pam Keefer
Lara - Flute/French Horn, Class of 1993
Sara - Trumpet, Class of 1995
Amanda - Flute, Class of 1998
Maria - Percussion, Class of 2001
Loren and Pam Keefer
Lara - Flute/French Horn, Class of 1993
Sara - Trumpet, Class of 1995
Amanda - Flute, Class of 1998
Maria - Percussion, Class of 2001
A candle was lit by Darlene Martin
on April 14, 2016 6:15 PM
A candle was lit by Oscar and Sebastian. Eileen will be missed.
on April 14, 2016 4:45 PM
Message from Tara Sharp (Beckel)
April 14, 2016 12:20 PM
Thank you for being so dedicated and teaching something you truly loved and had passion about. You touched so many lives throughout your journey. You will be missed but live on in so many memories.
Message from Lara Keefer
April 14, 2016 10:59 AM
Ms. Ruffing was my band teacher from 5 grade through the end of high school. She was very kind and was always smiling no matter how "good" we sounded. Which was not so good in the early years. She was very kind and willing to sit with me and play pieces with me as I practiced for competitions or county band. I will never forget that she was always willing to go the extra mile. I will always remember the fall years in high school when she would be "inside" with the group of us who were not in marching band. It was great to be part of a smaller group with her leading us. My prayers go out to her family, and please know she was a great teacher to all of the kids that she touched.
Message from Dave Carter
April 14, 2016 10:29 AM
Eileen and I began our teaching careers at Highland the same year. She was a good friend and colleague. Our prayers are with her family and friends.
Message from Deb Higgins
April 14, 2016 9:01 AM
Eileen was a wonderful person and will be sorely missed by the Highland Community. Her dedication to our music programs was greatly appreciated. She spent endless hours organizing special events for her program. Her passion for music was passed to many along her 35 years here. I send my condolences to your family and want you to know how much she was appreciated during the time she spent with us.
A MONET'S GARDEN TABLE BASKET was sent on April 14, 2016
She will truly be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Highland Middle School
Message from Anthony Snyder
April 14, 2016 5:48 AM
Ms. Ruffing is the one that first got me interested into music. Even after High School I would enjoy catching up with her when I would run into her at a parade or football game. I would like to send my prayers to her family.
Anthony Snyder- Trombone Player- Class of 1999
Anthony Snyder- Trombone Player- Class of 1999
Message from Aileen Fields
April 13, 2016 11:45 PM
She was a great band teacher who put her heart and soul into her work. My daughter had her for Band and so did my grandson. She was a very nice lady. I will never forget our trip to Nashville with the band. Sending prayers for the family. May God help you during this difficult time.
A candle was lit by Aileen Fields
on April 13, 2016 11:39 PM
A candle was lit by Pamela Thayer
on April 13, 2016 9:29 PM
A candle was lit by Jim and Kris Schaffer and Family
on April 13, 2016 6:42 PM
Message from Robin Fields Lassiter
April 13, 2016 6:09 PM
Smiling at memories of her from bandcamp 1993! RIP Mrs Ruffing!
Message from Debbie Edwards-Homola
April 13, 2016 4:38 PM
I was in the marching band from 1980-1984 and Ms. Ruffing was a wonderful and caring person. My prayers are with you during this challenging. time.
Message from Marengo,Ohio
April 13, 2016 3:14 PM
Thoughts and prayers for the family of Eileen's.Both of my children had her for a band teacher.Eileen was a great band teacher to our children and the students in the Highland School District.
Message from Gary and Kathy Orner
April 13, 2016 2:15 PM
We are so sorry to hear of Eileen's passing. We knew her through District 10 OMEA meetings and events. She always had a smile on her face and truly welcomed you in her presence.
Message from Highland Middle School kitchen
April 13, 2016 1:28 PM
The cooks in the Highland Middle School kitchen send their prayers and condolences to Eileen's family. We have known her a long time and she always treated us like her family, too. We will miss her smile and her hugs. Her love for music and all of our kids will never be forgotten. She was very special to all of us, but we know Heaven has gained a special angel.
Linda, Jill, Gina and Christy
Linda, Jill, Gina and Christy
A candle was lit by Brandon Sipe, tuba player, class of 2016 and the Deckers
on April 13, 2016 1:23 PM
Message from Sandy Beckel & family
April 13, 2016 1:22 PM
What a gift it was to have her not only in our school system but to have her in our three daughters lives. She touched countless people. She will truly be missed,
Message from Highland Music Boosters
April 13, 2016 1:20 PM
We just want the family to know how much Ms Ruffing meant to our music department. She was such a talented, amazing teacher/director that shared her love of music with our children for 30 years. She shaped so many young lives and brought them confidence and leadership skills through music. Starting in 2017, Highland Music Boosters will begin awarding the Eileen Ruffing Scholarship to one 4 year band student, in honor of her service to the Highland music program. She will be missed by so many.
Message from Angela Zirille
April 13, 2016 1:19 PM
Sending my thoughts and prayers to Eileen's family and friends for her loss. Eileen has been a wonderful mentor teacher to many young band directors over the years. Her professionalism with a smile helped me to learn and grow as a teacher myself. She will be greatly missed by many band directors as she was a wonderful addition to our profession.
Message from Br. Francis Schafer - Toronto, Onatario
April 13, 2016 12:00 PM
It was with deep sadness that I learned of Eilleen's passing. Be assured of my prayers and deepest sympathy. May your deep faith, the love of family and friends and the sharing of wonderful memories support you during this time of grief.
A candle was lit by Bill & Karen Ruffing
on April 13, 2016 11:57 AM
Message from Bill & Karen Ruffing
April 13, 2016 11:57 AM
You will be missed cousin, even though we did not spend much time together in our adult years. We can all see the love & respect your students had for you as they share their stories, as well as your love for music. We will pray that you will be with Jesus in heaven, although we probably don't need to pray that hard for that to happen. For Aunt Evelyn, Sister Joyella, Donna, Tony and Andy, our prayers to you for comfort, peace and strength during this sad time. Love, Bill & Karen Ruffing
Message from Nick Myers
April 13, 2016 11:23 AM
Eileen was a dedicated music teacher. I only knew her through District 10 events and planning but she was a caring person who tried to give back to others. I also judged music contests with her and she always kept a positive attitude. Rest in peace, Eileen.
A candle was lit by Patti Cavinee
on April 13, 2016 10:58 AM
A candle was lit by Bill and Margie Garris
on April 13, 2016 10:39 AM
A candle was lit by Esther "Bell" Herman
on April 13, 2016 9:23 AM
A candle was lit by The Hixon family
on April 13, 2016 9:11 AM
Message from Gail Thompson
April 13, 2016 9:01 AM
To say that Miss Ruffing impacted the lives of my three children does not do her justice. She worked with unbelievable patience daily with my somewhat "challenging" son:-). I think she had a special place in her heart for him and knew how to get him to excel. He always insisted on giving her a xmas present each year because she was his favorite teacher. She would wear our presents to the band concerts and make sure my son saw that she was wearing them whether they were ear rings or a musical staff scarf, etc.
She understood that everyone had different gifts and talents but she didn't care as long as you tried your best. She worked with my daughters and allowed them to run cross country as well as participating in marching band. She was beyond dedicated to Highland Local Schools and we were fortunate to know her.
My thoughts and prayers will be with your family as you try to process your loss.
She understood that everyone had different gifts and talents but she didn't care as long as you tried your best. She worked with my daughters and allowed them to run cross country as well as participating in marching band. She was beyond dedicated to Highland Local Schools and we were fortunate to know her.
My thoughts and prayers will be with your family as you try to process your loss.
Message from Jamie Lyn Smith
April 13, 2016 8:54 AM
I'm so sorry to learn of Ms. Ruffing's passing, and hope that you find comfort in the wonderful legacy of music she left with so many students during her career. She was always a kind and enthusiastic teacher, and I learned a great deal from her. Sending prayers for your family. She will be missed.
Message from Stephen Domka
April 13, 2016 8:51 AM
Eileen was a strong supporter of the OMEA District 10 for many years. I am saddened to hear of her passing. She was always smiling and friendly every time I saw her. Thank You Eileen for your years of service to your students and to OMEA. Your family has my condolences and will be in my thoughts and prayers. Stephen Domka, OMEA East Central Region Chair
Message from The Jones & Sells Family
April 13, 2016 7:41 AM
Eileen Ruffin will be greatly missed, our family has known her for 15 years. She had taught our kids to play instruments and to love music. The Highland Community has lost a great lady! Play on Ms Ruffing
Message from Jan Hendrickson
April 13, 2016 7:08 AM
I taught with Eileen for several years at Highland. She was a pleasant person, and a caring teacher. She will be missed, indeed.
A candle was lit by Amanda, Amy , Pam and Steve Abraham
on April 13, 2016 6:29 AM
Message from Brad Smith
April 13, 2016 5:35 AM
Ms. Ruffing was an outstanding educator. I learned not only about the melody, and tune, but also about the "feel" of music from her. She tolerated my ridiculous desire to play the triangle in Carol of the Bells in 8th grade. When we fiiiiinaly got a piece right her smile lit the room. She truly loved what she did. Music is a little bit andante today. I thank you for all you did for so many.
Message from Michelle Sturgeon Mandich and family
April 13, 2016 1:33 AM
Ms. Ruffing was my very first band teacher at Highland west. It was because of teachers like you that I have my love of music. You will be dearly missed. Rip
A candle was lit by Michelle Sturgeon Mandich and family
on April 13, 2016 1:30 AM
Message from kelly crawford gearhart
April 13, 2016 12:16 AM
Sending prayers and love. Miss ruffing was an amazing, kind and loving person. She touched our lives very deeply. She will be sadly missed.
A candle was lit by Karen Elliott
on April 13, 2016 12:10 AM
Message from Taylor Robinson
April 12, 2016 10:51 PM
Miss Ruffing was my band director from fifth grade through my senior year last year. She worked so hard for all her students, the music department, and the Highland community. I'll never forget the impact she left on Highland or myself through the years. I'll always cherish the memories of my many years in band because of her.
Message from Washington Court House, Ohio
April 12, 2016 10:36 PM
Eileen was a kind and friendly soul who always lifted my spirits when we would meet up at various OMEA events. She will be sorely missed. Condolences to her family.
Message from Trina Lowery
April 12, 2016 10:23 PM
Rest in peace Miss Ruffing. You were a wonderful lady. Heaven has gained an exceptional angel.
Message from Elaine Longstreth
April 12, 2016 10:18 PM
Eileen was the most dedicated person I 've ever known!She spent many a night at the school making flags for the band or helping kids be the best at their chosen instrument. Being the night time custodian the best part was when she would play her clarinet not knowing anyone was listening! It was beautiful!! She was a dear friend I will miss but I am honored to have known her!
A candle was lit by Trina Lowery
on April 12, 2016 10:15 PM
Message from Pamela Porter
April 12, 2016 9:54 PM
Love & prayers to you all. Ms Ruffing was a wonderful person & great teacher. She will be greatly missed. Highland Class of 93.
A candle was lit by Pamela Porter
on April 12, 2016 9:50 PM
A candle was lit by Machelle Collins (Shelly Hardin). Rest in Peace Miss Ruffing
on April 12, 2016 9:49 PM
A candle was lit by The Crispens and Wallace family.
on April 12, 2016 9:09 PM
Message from Marilyn Smith
April 12, 2016 9:03 PM
Everyone u know will miss u so much, u were such a nice lady and friend to me.
A candle was lit by Marilyn Smith
on April 12, 2016 9:00 PM
A candle was lit by Perales -Lang family
on April 12, 2016 9:00 PM
Message from Perales -Lang Family
April 12, 2016 9:00 PM
Eternal rest granted to her Lotd and my perpetual lifht shine upon her.
Message from Bill Baker
April 12, 2016 8:56 PM
From a 2nd grade student music teacher through my High School years - Eileen Ruffing was a wonderful teacher and passionate about all of her students, and it showed.
My sincere sympathies to all of her extended family - know that she impacted thousands of students in their lives, and forever instilled a kindness and love of music in their lives that will carry on.
My sincere sympathies to all of her extended family - know that she impacted thousands of students in their lives, and forever instilled a kindness and love of music in their lives that will carry on.
Message from Erin Porter
April 12, 2016 8:40 PM
I had the pleasure of teaching with Eileen before I went into ministry. She was a very nice woman. She was my daughter's favorite teacher last year as she was in the sixth grade at Highland. At the end of the school year Blair announced to Miss Ruffing that she would be moving to Huron as I was being appointed as a pastor in Sandusky. Eileen made her transition easier by making contact with the band director at Huron. That made the scary move easier on our daughter and I was so thankful that she would take the time to ease Blair's fears. She wasn't just a teacher she was a special part of Blair's life. Eileen will be missed by many. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Message from Lisa and Terry Baker
April 12, 2016 8:20 PM
Eileen was a mentor and a friend! I first met her when she was in graduate school when I was an undergraduate, and then spent the next 30 years crossing paths at various OMEA events with our band kids. We'd meet for dinner to bounce ideas of of each other or discuss various ideas and solutions. She was a kind person who always had a smile and something positive to say for everyone. I know she's up in heaven playing in an awesome band with the other angels! Thoughts and prayers to her family and her band kids past and present.
A candle was lit by Nicole Bright
on April 12, 2016 7:55 PM
Message from Melanie Witzel Snyder
April 12, 2016 7:00 PM
I'm so sorry for your loss. Ms. Ruffing was an important part of many people's lives. She touched mine through her teaching and love for music. She was my elementary music teacher, then later our marching band flag director and band director. She was so dedicated to our school and our music program. She was an inspiration to many and will be missed. Praying for God's comfort and peace for you all.
Message from Richard Sherrick
April 12, 2016 6:59 PM
My condolences and prayers go to the family and friends of Eileen. It was my privilege and honor to know her professionally and personally. The music community and friends will miss her.
A candle was lit by Ashley M. McWilliams (Garris)
on April 12, 2016 6:58 PM
Message from Michele Deweese
April 12, 2016 6:42 PM
Ms. Ruffing was a very nice person. She was one my band teachers at Highland. She will be greatly missed.
A candle was lit by Michele Deweese
on April 12, 2016 6:38 PM
Message from Jeff and Gerry Greenwood
April 12, 2016 6:24 PM
We are so sorry to hear of Eileen's passing. She was much appreciated and will be greatly missed.
A candle was lit by Teresa street-smith
on April 12, 2016 6:05 PM
Message from Belinda Litt
April 12, 2016 5:53 PM
Dear Ruffing Family,
You have my deepest sympathy. Eileen was a great person. I worked with her at Highland Middle School. She will be remembered by many from the middle school as she always had a warm "Hello" for everyone. I ran into her a couple of times in Mount Vernon at the Parkside Restaurant after retirement. I will miss her. Prayers for the family.
You have my deepest sympathy. Eileen was a great person. I worked with her at Highland Middle School. She will be remembered by many from the middle school as she always had a warm "Hello" for everyone. I ran into her a couple of times in Mount Vernon at the Parkside Restaurant after retirement. I will miss her. Prayers for the family.
Message from Timothy J Ruffing
April 12, 2016 5:53 PM
You were a kind soul on this earth. May you be with Our Lord, on this day, in His loving arm's in the heaven's above...and may you know His peace, joy, and salvation. Love and will miss you Eileen...Tim Ruffing
Message from Thomas and Wendy Headley
April 12, 2016 5:45 PM
The impact and influence Eileen had on friends and students alike was warm and positive. To say that she was well-loved would be a profound understatement. She will be sorely missed.
Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Well done. Rest in peace.
Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Well done. Rest in peace.
Message from Kerry (Goare) Stygler and family
April 12, 2016 5:42 PM
Ms. Ruffing was a wonderful teacher and mentor. Her passion for music was incredible. She will be missed.
Message from Beth Robinson
April 12, 2016 5:40 PM
I'm sorry for your loss. Eileen was the band teacher when my oldest son was in the 5th grade. She taught all three of my children and several of my grandchildren. She was always cheerful and I don't think I ever saw her sit still. She was a wonderful lady and teacher. She will be sadly missed.
A candle was lit by Timothy J Ruffing
on April 12, 2016 5:39 PM
A GARDEN PATH was sent on April 12, 2016
You will be greatly missed. Until we see you again. Love, Courtney, Andi, and David Classes 2007-2009
Message from Mindy Fryman
April 12, 2016 5:22 PM
Ms. Ruffing was my band director starting in fifth grade. She taught me to play the clarinet. I was also honored to hear her play in a concert. She was such a talented musician and a wonderful teacher and friend. All of us at Highland are so grateful for her dedication to music and her students. She will be sadly missed by myself and my family. Please accept our deepest condolences. Mindy Fryman and family
Message from Kelley Painter
April 12, 2016 5:14 PM
You were my very first band teacher, I got my love of the clarinet from you. RIP Ms Ruffing, you will be greatly missed.
A candle was lit by Carolyn (Bill) Hillier
on April 12, 2016 5:05 PM
A candle was lit by The Bennett's
on April 12, 2016 5:02 PM
Message from Kalvari
April 12, 2016 4:58 PM
Miss Ruffing was one of my favorite teachers. She always invested so much of herself into helping me become better. I always felt like I had a great bond with her. I visited her a few weeks ago and she had the flu. I was sure she would get better. She is healed, just not how I expected it. She was an amazing person, and I was blessed to know her.
Message from Avon Park, Florida
April 12, 2016 4:57 PM
I am so sorry to hear this. She was a good friend and colleague. I worked with her for many years at Highland. She always had my respect and admiration.
Erma Morgan
Erma Morgan
Message from Chasity (Lee) Coleman
April 12, 2016 4:52 PM
Ms. Ruffing was one of my favorite teachers. I was saddened to hear of her passing. Her love for music was so inspirational and she took the time with each of her students. She pushed me to strive to do my best and I will forever be grateful for such a positive role model in my life. The Highland community will not be the same without you Ms. Ruffing. Thank you for your years of service. Keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers always. *Chasity Lee, clarinet player, class of 1999*
Message from James cantrell
April 12, 2016 4:21 PM
Sorry for your loss. Praying for the family. She was a great band teacher. I had her in Elementary school at highland west in 6th grade. She was always careing for her students and would take time out to help you if u needed help. God bless the family and friends.
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