On Friday, February 13, 2026, our community lost a bright light. Kyler Rugg, just 17 years old, passed away from injuries sustained in a tragic automobile accident. While our hearts are heavy with the weight of this loss, we find ourselves leaning on the very words Kyler lived by: “Every day is a great day, but not everybody sees the great in that day.”
Kyler was a young man who saw the "great" in everything. A senior at WACO High School, he was a force of nature—whether he was working, participating in the FFA (which he truly loved), or listening to 90's country songs.
At an age when most are just beginning to figure things out, Kyler was already a leader and a businessman. He was the proud owner and operator of Rugg’s Lawn Care and Snow Removal. He had a work ethic that was second to none, a passion for tractors and fishing, and a legendary ability to give the kind of hugs that made everything feel alright.
Kyler leaves behind his parents, Aaron and Dawn of Wayland; two brothers Karsen and Kolten; his girlfriend Sammy Helfrich of Brighton; their soon to be born son Benjamin Kyler James; his maternal grandparents: Jimmy and Gina Stauffer of Wayland, paternal grandparents Merle and Sherri Rugg of Wayland, maternal great-grandparents Curt and Janice Eddy of Wayland, and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
Why we are raising funds:
This GoFundMe has been established to support the Rugg family during this unimaginably difficult time. As they navigate the days ahead, we want to help alleviate the financial burden of medical expenses and funeral costs, allowing them to focus on honoring Kyler’s incredible legacy.
How you can help:
Donate: Any amount, no matter how small, helps the family during this transition.
Share: Please share this page with your family, friends, and neighbors.
Cash/check donations can be done at White State Bank in Wayland. Please make donations out to Aaron or Dawn Rugg.
Visitation will be held Friday, Feb 20, at the WACO High School gym, with a Celebration of Life to follow on May 23.
Thank you for your kindness, your prayers, and for helping us remember a young man who gave so much of himself to the world in such a short time.