Mara Rugh

Mara Joan Rugh, 69, of South Bend, Indiana, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Sunday, July 12, 2026, with loved ones by her side.

Mara was born in North Charleroi, PA and moved with her family to Erwin, TN when she was ten. She enrolled at ETSU at 16 and studied special education, graduating magna cum laude in 1977. She taught special needs school children for a number of years while pursuing a second degree in chemical and electronic engineering. She settled in Elkhart in 1992 for a position in quality control with a large automotive electronic components manufacturer. Progressive complications from MS caused her to leave her career and relocate to Southfield Village in South Bend in 2001.

Mara was an inspiration to all who encountered her. Her quick sense of humor, perpetually sunny disposition, and optimistic outlook – despite the hand of cards life had dealt – made a lasting impression on everyone who met her. Throughout her life she maintained a strong faith in God and believed the best in others and the world at large. Those who knew her will always remember her trademark phrase, “It is what it is,” a simple expression that reflects her remarkable resilience, grace, and unwavering spirit to face whatever life brought her way. She was blessed with many dear friends whose love and companionship enriched her life and brought her joy.

Mara joins in heaven her parents, Joel and Joan Rugh of Owosso, MI, her brother Randy Rugh, and several aunts, uncles, and cousins. She is survived by her sister-in-law, Mary Rugh; nieces Jessica Frantz and Jennifer Johnson; grandniece Eleanor and grandnephew TJ; many beloved cousins and a world of cherished friends and fans.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the National MS Society, P.O. Box 91891, Washington, D.C. 20090 or nationalmssociety.org.