David Ruback, president of REI, passes away

OMAHA, Neb. — David Ruback, president of Radio Engineering Industries Inc. (REI), recently lost his battle with pancreatic cancer at the age of 56.  

Ruback, who passed away on May 22, is survived by his wife, Marcy, and two sons, Joe and K.C. Ruback.

Ruback started at REI in 1987 and was promoted to president in 1998. Company officials said he was instrumental in REI’s growth and commitment to service, and he was “keen on talking to the customer, not hiding behind faxes or e-mails.”

In addition, he strived for continuous improvement and pushed REI to be on the cusp of technology to provide superior transportation electronic products.

Ruback also dedicated his time to noble causes outside of REI. He was a volunteer coach for the Nebraska Red Dawgs Junior National Wheelchair Basketball Association (NWBA) team. He reportedly led the Red Dawgs to win the Junior Division National Championship in 2011 and 2012.

In honor of Ruback, the NWBA Junior Division has formed the David Ruback Legacy Award. The award honors parents of NWBA Junior Division athletes who go “above and beyond the norm” for the betterment of the junior division. REI said Ruback was an outstanding leader and mentor to these young men.

He also volunteered his time as the board treasurer for Make-A-Wish Nebraska. During his six years of involvement, he was able to be a part of fulfilling 571 wishes to kids.

Memorials in Ruback’s name have been established at Make-A-Wish of Nebraska, 11926 Arbor St., Omaha, NE 68144 or Eastern Nebraska Wheelchair Athletic Association (ENWAA), PO Box 540875, Omaha, NE 68154.