Melvin Ray Ruark was born March 31, 1934 in Lewiston. After graduating from Lewiston High School, he attended Linfield College on a baseball scholarship. He excelled in baseball and was honored by being selected all-league while a freshman. He graduated from University of Idaho and began a 30-year career in education and coaching. His first position as a coach and teacher was in Weippe. He is still remembered for his success in those endeavors. He taught biology, health, English, economics, civics and PE.

Meanwhile, he guided the Weippe Gorillas to a state basketball championship in 1961, won a district title in 1962 and led them to another appearance at state in 1963. His football teams also were very successful.

Mel became a member of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association in 1957 and competed in bull and saddle bronc riding. While in Weippe, he was highly instrumental in organizing and producing the first Weippe Rodeo in 1961. He served as the association's first secretary. On the 25th anniversary of the event, he was honored by being chosen along with Fred Young as co-grand marshals of the 1986 Weippe Rodeo and parade.

He never forgot his love of the Weippe Prairie and its people. In 1964, he moved to Asotin where he taught for two years before accepting a position as teacher and coach at Sacajawea Junior High School, where he remained until his retirement.

Ruark was well remembered by three members of the 1961 state championship team as they celebrated the 60th anniversary of the win during the annual Weippe Rodeo and parade.

He died at his home in Lewiston April 3, 2004.

Information from: https://www.genealogybuff.com/id/id-clearwater-obits5.htm and Lewiston Tribune https://lmtribune.com/sports/the-ghost-of-championship-past/article_2d1e5b5e-4f40-5f4b-bb95-1a59068e812a.html

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