William E. Rupp Family

William E. Rupp was baptized, confirmed and educated at St. Mary’s Church and grade school. He was a member of the 1953 graduating class of Monroe Catholic Central High School of which he remained as an active alumni and supporter. Bill attended St. Joseph College, Rensselaer, Indiana, and was a 1957 graduate of Wayne State University School of Mortuary Science, Detroit.

Bill was the fourth generation owner and operator of Rupp Funeral Home, one of the oldest businesses in the state of Michigan. In March 2007, he was honored by the Michigan Funeral Directors Association for 50 years of dedicated service to the funeral profession. In addition, he owned and operated an ambulance service for many years and served two elected terms as Coroner of Monroe County.

As a member and usher of St. Michael’s Church, he was active in its parish council, building committee, school board and stewardship committee. For over 30 years, he served on the board of directors of the Monroe County Historical Society. Bill also served on the Mercy Memorial Hospital Corporate Board of Trustees, its Finance and Audit Committee and its Philanthropy Advisory Committee. As a member of Monroe Council 1266 Knights of Columbus, he served two terms as Grand Knight and was active and former chairman of its charitable Goodfellow program. In addition, he was a member of Raisin River General Assembly #0488, Michigan Historical Society, Monroe Club, a charter member of the Monroe Sertoma Club, Michigan Funeral Directors Association, National Funeral Directors Association, Little Big Horn Association, President and Commodore of the Sunken Sail Yacht Club, former St. Michael Boy Scout Troup #47, Boy Scout of America Order of the Arrow, former disaster committee chairman of Monroe County Chapter, American Red Cross and former campaign director of the March of Dimes.

Bill thought higher education was important. He was proud of his children and grandchildren for achieving higher education.

Bill was the son of Edward W. and Alma M. (Linenfelser) Rupp. On June 29, 1957, he married Donna Jean Cousino in St. Michael Church. Bill and Donna had 52 beautiful years together. From that marriage, they had five children, William E. Jr., Gregory V. (Beth), Jeffrey C. (Marlena), Polly A., and Bryan M.; five grandchildren, Andrew, Lauren, Ryan, Jessica and Chelsea.

Because of Bill’s commitment to Monroe County Community College and the support of the community, the family received upon Bill’s death is why the family is making the donation to MCCC. Knowing how he gave to this community, this is a pleasure and honor to remember him. His memory will continue to support and many individuals will benefit.