Michael Ray Woodruff

Michael Ray Woodruff, a loving father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2024, at the age of 78, surrounded by his son, Benjamin, and daughter, Brooke. His long, brave fight against Parkinson's Disease spanned 50 years, a testament to his strength and determination.

Born on March 27, 1946, in St. Louis, Missouri, to the late Clarence and Zelma (Branson) Woodruff.  Michael was raised with a deep passion for creativity, mechanics, the arts of wood working and painting. He graduated from the University of Missouri-Rolla, earning a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, followed by a Master of Science in Engineering Management. During his time at university, Michael was an active member of various honor societies and fraternities including Theta Tau Professional Engineering Fraternity and Kappa Alpha Order Fraternity.  His collegiate career was marked by significant leadership roles in organizations focused on engineering and student welfare, culminating in his proud accomplishment as the 1970 University of Missouri-Rolla 177 lb wrestling champion.

Michael enjoyed a fruitful career across several renowned companies such as Ralston Purina, Olin Mills, Wagner Electric, and Ford Motor Corporation, ultimately retiring from McDonnell Douglas Corporation in 1993. His dedication extended beyond the workplace, having served our country as an Armor Officer in the United States Army from 1970 to 1978, attaining the rank of  2nd Lieutenant.

A man of many talents, Michael had an adventurous spirit. He cherished spending weekends by the water, indulging in fishing trips, and embraced his love for the outdoors. Those moments spent in nature brought him immense joy and were complemented by his enthusiasm for woodworking, painting, and fixing just about anything. Whether it was cheering on his children at sporting events or sharing good times over a Strawberry Hulk Smoothie and a tray of White Castles, Michael was known for his caring nature and his ability to lift the spirits of those he loved.  Above all, nothing brought Michael more excitement than supporting his children in their various endeavors.  Perhaps, his greatest joy was watching Ben play football at Army and Brooke competing in Track & Field at SEMO and Purdue University.  He traveled the country to watch these two at every collegiate event.

Michael's family was the heart of his life.  He is survived by his children, Benjamin Woodruff and Brooke Theodorakos, their respective spouses Ashley and Jason, and his beloved granddaughters Bentley, Ashten, Hylo, and Hope.  He is also remembered by the mother of his children, Karla Woodruff, his sister Anita (Jim) Jones; his brothers Jim (Pam) Woodruff, Donald (Stephanie) Woodruff, & Michael (Sara) Baer; and step-mother, Marilyn Rothwell.

Michael now rejoins his dear mother Zelma, father Clarence, and brother Dennis, who have passed before him.  As we gather to honor his memory, we will carry forward the kindness, wit, resilience, and creative spirit he shared with us all.

Visitation will be held on November 7, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM at Newcomer Funeral Home in St. Peters, Missouri, followed by a service celebrating his remarkable life at 11:30 AM. Burial will be held at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery at 1:30 pm. In our hearts, Michael will always be remembered as a warrior against adversity, and a beacon of light, love, and laughter in the lives he touched.