David Ruback, president of Radio Engineering Industries Inc. (REI), lost his battle with pancreatic cancer on Tuesday, May 22, 2012. He was 56 years old. Ruback 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. Ruback was instrumental in REI’s growth and commitment to service. He was keen on talking to the customer, not hiding behind faxes or emails. He believed the personal touch is what separated REI from the competition. He strived for continuous improvement and pushed REI to be on the cusp of technology to provide superior transportation electronic products.
Ruback is also remembered for his dedication away from the office. He was a volunteer coach for the Nebraska Red Dawgs Junior NWBA Team — National Wheelchair Basketball Association. He led the Red Dawgs in winning the Junior Division National Championship in 2011 and 2012. In honor of Ruback, the NWBA Junior Division announced the formation of 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. Ruback was an outstanding leader and mentor to these young men.
In addition, Ruback also volunteered his time as the board teasurer for Make-A-Wish Nebraska. During his six years of involvement, he was able to be a part of providing 571 wish kids with hope, strength and joy.
Memorials in Mr. 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), P.O. Box 540875, Omaha, NE 68154.
