Duane Alan Ruffie

Duane Alan Ruffie was born September 1, 1961 to Joanne and Joseph Ruffie and grew up in Rhinelander. Duane graduated from Rhinelander High School. He passed June 11, 2026 at the age of 64.

Duane was preceeded in death by his father Joseph Ruffie. He is survived by his mother Joanne, wife Cheryle, sons Lukas, Kurtus (Brianna), and daughter Tiffiny. He is survived by grandchildren Aaliyah Lynn (Quentin), Josh Bacon, Alivia Jo Lynn, Ryder Alan, Wyatt Anthony, and Hoyt. He is also survived by great-grandchildren Wyatt, Layla, Mylah and Cohan.

Duane had a love for many things in life. He loved to go fishing with family and friends. Duane had a big love for all things automotive. Although if he had the choice, everything would have been made by Chevy, but he would fix them all. His love for automotive and going fast and horsepower also gave him his love for racing. Through his life he competed in many races in the dirt track world with many race wins. He also attended many NASCAR races across the country. With all the things Duane loved, his love for his family was the biggest of all. From his kids, to his grandkids, to the great-grandchildren he loved them all. From the days out and about with his daughter, to taking the grandkids out to eat at Pizza Ranch, he enjoyed all of it. His sons shared his passion for automotive and painting with him and followed in his footsteps of racing. He always dreamed of one day getting on the track with them.

Duane will live on in the hearts of many and his family and friends will honor and cherish all that he did for them.

To Duane we say R.I.P.... Racing in paradise. The family has already held a small service for immediate family and friends.

Gaffney-Busha Funeral Home is serving the family.