Michael James Ruyechan, Jr

It is with sad hearts that we share, Michael James Ruyechan, Jr., 60, passed away on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born on August 3, 1966, the only child to the late Mildred (Evans) and Michael J. Ruyechan, Sr. He is survived by his beloved wife of 27 years, Jill (Weaver) Ruyechan and his loving son, Kadin.

Mike worked in the Banking Industry as an IT Test Specialist. He was a great enthusiast of the French and Indian war, local history, and his art collection of Robert Griffing. His many hobbies include photography, reading, watercolor painting, astronomy, woodworking, a love for music, and the Beatles with a focus on Paul McCartney. He was a collector of Star Wars figures and comics favoring Batman and Spiderman. Mike wrote poems and published his first book of poetry in 1997. His poem, Two Coins, was published by Pennsylvania Bards, Western PA Poetry Review 2026, with an Anthology of Poetry by West Pennsylvania Poets. You can enjoy his written piece, Two Coins, following his obituary.

Some of Mike's fun-loving qualities include playing his original tunes on the harmonica, as well as telling silly jokes daily at the dinner table. Spending time with his family was always a top priority whether it was watching planes take off and land at the airport, F1, or his favorite team the Pirates. Mike had a deep abiding faith in Jesus Christ, and he enjoyed studying God’s Word. Mike was a man of many facets. He built his life centered on family, faith, work, creativity, and community. Mike found joy in his many hobbies, traditions, and favorite places. Those closest to him will always remember his love for grilled cheese sandwiches. The family is grateful for the kindness and support shown during these difficult times. There will be no visitation. A private graveside service will be held for family and close friends. Arrangements by Copeland’s.

TWO COINS   

The shiny gold British Guinea

And the silver Spanish Pistareen

Imagine all of the history

That these two coins have seen

If they could talk they would speak volumes

Of the men that carried them around

Today’s lover of lore and history

Is hoping that they can be found

In the backwoods of Pennsylvania

Marched General Braddock and his men

George Washington as his Aide-de-camp

Recorded history with pen

Iron gall ink on paper

Records the day’s events

Men resting from their efforts

The General planning in his tent

The foreign land tries the stamina

Of the men and those in command

Two coins now part of history

As they are passed from hand to hand

Iron gall ink on paper

Tells the gruesome tales

Of the suffering in the darkness

From the tortured men’s shrill wails

Tied at the shore in late evening

Fires burning at their feet

As prized bounty from the battle

Now suffering in defeat

An on-looker safe in Fort Pitt

Tortured cries keeping both awake

Peace soon to come to both men

On the edge of what each can take

Iron gall ink on paper

And two coins in the ground

One is history in the making

The other is history as it’s found

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael James Ruyechan, Jr, please visit our floral store.