Michael E. Ruyak Jr., 80, of Emmaus, died May 26, 2023. He was the husband of Rosemarie “Rosie” (Tiwold) Ruyak. Born in Reading, he was the son of the late Michael E. Ruyak Sr. and Mary (Skrovina) Ruyak.

He was a graduate of Allentown Central Catholic High School and then served in the U.S. Army. After his years of service, he worked for IBM in 1964 as a customer engineer in the field engineering division, retiring in 2003.

He was an active volunteer. He remained involved in Scouting from his youth until his death. He was a Scout in Troop 50 at Sacred Heart in Allentown then, after returning from his service in the Army, became their Scoutmaster. In Scouting, he was a Wood Badge participant and staff member, served the Trexler District of Minsi Trails Council in various positions and was involved with Troop 31 in Old Zionsville for a number of years.

He tirelessly volunteered and would lend a hand to anyone. He was very dedicated to Camp Serranova, located outside of Macungie and served as the ranger and treasurer since 1970. He and his wife founded the youth groups at Sacred Heart Church, Allentown and St. Ann’s Church, Emmaus. He volunteered at Macungie Memorial Park events, including Das Awkscht Fescht, the Easton State Theatre, Allentown Symphony Hall, Celtic Fest in Bethlehem, St. Ann’s Parish festivals in Emmaus, Lehigh Valley Hospital (office and Tree Top Gift Shop) and many others over the years.

He was the AARP local coordinator for income tax since 2005 and the treasurer for the Macungie Ambulance Corps from 1984 to 2012. He served his community since 1974 with the Upper Milford Western District Fire Company, Zionsville. He was a firefighter, was their current treasurer for many years and was the captain of the Upper Milford Western District Fire Police since 1994. He was a life member of the Upper Milford Western District Fire Company, the Fullerton Fire Company and the Mercantile Club of Emmaus.

While his life was busy with work and volunteering efforts, his focus was always on his family and the time he spent with them as a quiet observer. He and his wife enjoyed “Granny Camp,” which was one week over the summer with no parents and minimal rules.

He loved to travel and enjoyed many adventures throughout the years. One of his favorite places to visit was with his wife’s family in Austria. Together, they traveled to 16 countries and 46 states.

He is survived by his wife; son, David and his wife, Erin (Martin); grandchildren, Cecilia and Benjamin; nieces; a goddaughter, Kimberlee (Leonard) Rodriguez; many more family and friends. He was predeceased by his son, Michael E., who died March 19, 1988; brother, Stephen, who died November 2022.

Contributions may be made to Camp Serranova, P.O. Box 72, Old Zionsville, 18068.

Calling hours will be held 6 to 8 p.m. June 1 at the Bachman, Kulik & Reinsmith Funeral Home, 225 Elm St., Emmaus. A memorial Mass will be held 11 a.m. June 2 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church, 415 S. Sixth St., Emmaus.