Alfred Gerhard Ruppel

Alfred G. Ruppel, age 90 of Troy, died Thursday, December 8, 2011 at Crittenton Hospital in Rochester, Michigan. He was born on August 31, 1921 in Detroit, the son of the late Christian and the late Emily (nee: Krchrar) Ruppel.With thanks & praise from a grateful nation, we pay homage to Mr. Ruppel for the sacrifices made and the call to duty he so proudly served as a sailor in the U.S. Navy during World War II. A true patriot and decorated veteran, he served our country with honor and did his part in preserving the freedoms and liberties we enjoy today.Mr. Ruppel's career life was centered in the field of tool & die manufacturing, a detailed and precision-oriented industry that called upon an expertise for which his skills and talents were highly sought after and exemplified. Though the demands of his employment were specialized, it wasn't the only example of his strong work ethics. Even at home, he was always tinkering and keeping busy with various projects. With his many tools at the ready, he found great pride and reward in playing the role of Mr. Fix-It. When it came to fixing and repairing things, Al was the handiest guy to have around.When he wasn't working, Mr. Ruppel enjoyed a number of pastimes,...one of which was the pleasure he found in traveling. He loved cars and driving, which only helped to add to the joy he experienced in heading out to see the world. He also loved playing card games, and was especially proficient in the old standard of solitaire. And as for the simple pleasures of life, there was nothing much sweeter to Al than a piece of apple pie smothered in ice cream,...or a good cup of coffee.Mr. Ruppel was also renowned for being quite the people-person. Whether in the company of just one or two, or surrounded by a host of friends at a party, he loved engaging in the lives of others. Yet of all the people that enhanced his life, there was none more precious than the relationships he shared with his loved ones. His family meant the world to him and the memories they created together made for some lasting and wonderful reflections. A loving husband, father and grandfather, he was the endearing patriarch amidst all of the family's activities. He was extremely devoted to his wife, a shining example to his son and daughter, and a doting grandfather unlike any other. He leaves behind a legacy of love that is strong and true, and will be forever treasured for the care and compassion that guided his life and touched a multitude of hearts. He will be missed immensely and loved eternally. He was the beloved husband of the late June. Dear father of Alfred (Susan) Ruppel and Nancy (Benny) James. Loving grandfather of Chris, Curt, Christa, and Brian. Also survived by 6 1/2 great-grandchildren. A Committal Service for Alfred, with Naval Military Honors, will be held at 11:00am on Monday, December 12th at White Chapel Cemetery, 621 W. Long Lake Road in Troy, Michigan. Officiating the service will be Rev. John Blake.In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are welcomed to Angela's Hospice, 14100 Newburgh Road, Livonia, MI 48154 -or- the Michigan Humane Society, 30300 Telegraph Road, Suite 220, Bingham Farms, MI 48025.Please share memories of Alfred at his guest book.