Speer Ruey, 75, of Speers Borough, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at West Penn Hospital in Pittsburgh. Born in Charleroi on August 14, 1950, he was the cherished son of the late Harry and Margaret Lukanich Ruey.
Speer was a devoted husband, loving father, deeply involved grandfather, and a true friend to all who knew him. A proud graduate of Donora High School, he served as president of the Donora Dragon Class of 1968, a role that reflected his natural leadership and the deep respect he earned from classmates, many of whom remained lifelong friends.
He went on to earn his bachelor's degree from California University and later a master's degree from Penn State. Speer dedicated his professional life to service as a hearing, speech, and language pathologist with the Intermediate Unit, where he made a meaningful and lasting impact on countless children and families. His passion for helping others extended well beyond his career through his involvement is multiple charities and community outreach.
Deeply rooted in his community, Speer was a longtime member of Tri County Lodge #252, Free Masons; the Croatian Club in Donora; the Eldora Gun Club; the Naomi Club; and the Donora Sportsman Club, where he proudly served as president. He loved outdoors especially deer hunting and fishing-and was an unwavering Pittsburgh sports fan, faithfully following the Steelers, Pirates, and Penguins.
Above all, Speer's greatest joy was his family. Nothing delighted him more than spending time with his grandchildren-listening to their stories, watching them play sports, or simply being present in their lives. Known for his sharp wit and unforgettable sense of humor, he could light up any room. His spot-on impersonation of Rodney Dangerfield was legendary at family gatherings, where he also loved cooking for those he cared about, finding true happiness in bringing people together around the table.
Speer was a devoted and loving husband to his wife, Nancy, with whom he shared 24 cherished years. He supported her unwaveringly through her breast cancer treatments, standing by her side with quiet strength, patience, and encouragement. Their marriage was a powerful testament to enduring love, commitment, and resilience.
Remembered for his big heart and generous spirit, Speer wore his emotions openly and gave freely of himself. He was kind, compassionate, and always ready to help-whether family, friend, or stranger. He had an extraordinary ability to connect with others, making everyone feel welcomed and valued. His love for the Mon Valley and the Donora community ran deep, and that love was returned wholeheartedly.
Speer lived a life grounded in what mattered most: family, friendship, service, honesty, integrity, and giving time to those he loved. His kindness, warmth, humor, and generosity will live on in the many lives he touched.
Surviving to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Nancy Figel-Ruey and his canine companion Mo; three daughters, Deana (Kyle) Carter of Charles Town, WV, Nichole (Damon) Jones of Rostraver Township, and Rachael (Kenneth) Resau of Arlington, VA; five cherished grandchildren, Quinn, Griffin, Ava, Vinny, and Theo; three sisters, Myra Amodie, Marcy (John) Scott, and Maggi (Tom) Kelly; and many nieces and nephews.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the ANTHONY L. MASSAFRA FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICE INC., 40 Second Street Ext., Carroll Township/Donora, PA 15033, (724) 379-6900, where the family will receive friends from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 30, 2026. A service will take place at 4 p.m. in the funeral home, Saturday afternoon.
Memorial contributions in Speer's name can be made to the Donora Sportsman Club, the Eldora Gun and Rod Club, the Donora Smog Museum, or to the Washington Area Humane Society.