Michael Keith Ruppe II.

July 23, 1986 – July 1, 2026

Michael Keith Ruppe II, 39, passed away unexpectedly on July 1, 2026. While he was living in Oak Ridge at the time of his passing, Oakdale would always be home in his heart.

Michael was a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend who never met a stranger. He had a way of making everyone around him feel welcome, comfortable, and loved. He was laid back, genuine, and always ready with a smile or a joke. No matter what kind of day you were having, Michael somehow knew how to make it better.

If you knew Michael, you knew he gave the best hugs—whether you wanted one or not. He loved picking on the people he cared about, teasing them until they couldn't help but laugh. And if you were lucky enough to be one of his favorites, you probably remember him rubbing that prickly beard all over your face while covering you in a million kisses. Those little moments are the ones we'll miss the most.

Michael found happiness in life's simple things. He loved being outdoors, especially fishing on “Ruppe Mountain”, where he could slow down, enjoy the quiet, and spend time with the people he loved most.

Although Michael never had children of his own, becoming a father was one of the dreams he carried in his heart. That love found its way to the people who needed it most.

Michael's nephew, Carter, was the light of his life. Their bond was truly special. Michael loved him like a son, and Carter adored his uncle "Bubba." Whether it was random outings, movie dates, or wrestling on the couch, every moment they shared became a memory that Carter will carry with him forever.

Michael shared that same protective heart with his youngest sister, Alexis. With twenty years between them, their relationship was never a typical brother-and-sister one. He loved watching her grow and looked after her with fierce love.

Michael also shared an unbreakable bond with his sister, Jessica. Like most brothers and sisters, they grew up fussing over everything—"She's looking at me!" and "He's touching me!"—but somewhere along the way, they became best friends. They were each other's biggest supporters, always celebrating life's highs and helping each other through the lows. Their love for one another was constant and unconditional.

Michael was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Martin Ruppe and Howard Atkinson, and his uncle, Billy Atkinson.

He is survived by his beloved father, Michael (Loretta) Ruppe; his loving mother, Marilyn (Jody) Whiting-Gaddy; his selfless grandparents, Bess and Rickey Slaton; Step-Grandmother, Patsy Ruppe; his siblings, Jessica (Adam) Welborn, Taylor Ivy, Chopper Whiting, Kelli Surig, and Alexis Whiting; his nephew, Carter Welborn; his aunts and uncles, Marty Ruppe, Terry Slaton, Brandon Ruppe, April Bezenah, and Jack Atkinson; countless cousins he loved like brothers and sisters; and many extended family members and dear friends who will forever cherish the time they shared with him.

Michael had a gift for making friends wherever he went. He left people smiling, laughing, and feeling loved. His absence leaves a hole that can never truly be filled, but the love he gave and the memories he created will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew him.

Though our hearts are broken, we are incredibly thankful for every memory, every laugh, every hug, and every moment we shared with Michael. He leaves behind a lifetime of love that will continue to live on in all of us.

If love alone could have kept him here, Michael would have lived forever. Until we meet again, we'll love you always.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. at New Life Baptist Church, 510 Devonia St., Harriman, TN 37748. A memorial service will follow from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. Family and friends are invited to stay afterward for a meal and time of fellowship. Burial of Michael's cremated remains will follow with close family and friends.

Schubert Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Michael Keith Ruppe II.