The FAA mourns the recent loss of a colleague, David Joe Ruppel, a man of unwavering commitment and strength, who passed away from a car accident on June 21, 2024, just one day after his 73rd birthday. Born on June 20, 1951, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, David’s life was dedicated to service – whether through his country, his work, or his loved ones. His love for aviation found a professional home at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), where he worked as a Cabin Safety Coordinator at the Civil Aerospace Medical Institute.
David’s military career began after earning his Associate’s Degree in Business from Kemper Military Academy, where he developed a lifelong love for discipline and camaraderie. As a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States National Guard, he served with distinction, embodying the values of honor and duty. David’s passion for his work went far beyond his job title; his FAA colleagues remember him as a ’key’ player of the operation, someone who infused both hard work and joy into every task. Co-workers fondly reflect on hearing him come down the hall long before they saw him, in that he was always carrying a large dangling keychain that clinked whenever he walked.
As Rick DeWeese, a retired FAA colleague and former supervisor of David, noted, "David’s passion for his work and CAMI’s safety mission was evident to everyone. He was always dependable, helpful, encouraging, and loyal… We were blessed to have known him."
David’s presence at the Civil Aerospace Medical Institute (CAMI) was marked not only by his dedication but by his humility and selflessness. Whether he was the first car to arrive in the parking lot in the morning or the very last car to leave, he was willing to invest the time to ensure everything was in order, David’s contributions never went unnoticed. Bob Shaffstall from the Protection Survival Research Laboratory comments, "With Dave, it was never about himself – it was always about the organization and his fellow workers."
Beyond his professional life, David found joy in simpler pursuits. Serving as an Eagle Scout in his youth, he carried the values of preparedness and service throughout his lifetime. His love for nature and wildlife photography often took him on adventures with his beloved Connie Patillo. The couple shared many treasured moments on their day trips, exploring the beauty of the world around them.
David’s legacy is also reflected in the memories of his friends and colleagues. As Ken Larcher, an engineer who had worked with David fondly recalled, "So many memories, Rupe, from Civil Air Patrol to the FAA and beyond… You were all our dogs’ favorite uncle when you babysat them year after year."
Though David has left us too soon, his spirit continues to soar, much like the airplanes he so greatly loved. His life was a testament to dedication, kindness, and service. He will be deeply missed by his family – Connie, and cousin Tim Collins, as well as by his many friends and colleagues. In the words of his supervisor Mac McLean, "Now you are surely soaring with the eagles. We will miss your calls. God bless you forever."
David Joe Ruppel’s life touched many, and his legacy of humility, hard work, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
