It is with a heavy collective heart that the Humboldt Crabs organization announces that board member and former president Bill Ruff passed away on Christmas Day.
It was only a few short months ago that Bill stood on the infield of the Arcata Ball Park on the last day of our 75th season and passed the torch on to current president David Sharp. Bill served as president from 2017-2019, and as his tenure drew to a close he was presented with a trophy and a Crabs jersey with his name and the number 7 on it, as the seventh president of the team.
“Bill loved being at the ballpark and getting to know Crabs fans,” Sharp said upon hearing of Ruff’s passing. “From learning what year fans first started attending games to what kept them coming back, hearing fans’ personal stories gave him great joy. Bill was determined to provide an exceptional fan experience for first-time Crabs fans and for our long-time loyal fans to keep everyone coming back year after year. We’ll miss his presence at the ballpark, but we’re dedicated to keeping his passionate commitment to our fans.”
Ruff was also a longtime member of the Humboldt County Board of Education. He joined the Board of Education in December 2001, and was still an active member of the Board at the time of his death.
“If you were fortunate enough to have met Bill, you will quickly remember his incredible personality and strong sense of humor,” said Humboldt County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Chris Hartley. “I consider Bill a mentor and have always been rejuvenated by his positive outlook and steadfast commitment to thinking of our children and community first.”
A man who loved both baseball and children so much Bill will be greatly missed in Humboldt County.
A potluck-style celebration of life will be held at the Sequoia Conference Center, 901 Myrtle Avenue in Eureka, at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Jan.5,
