Meet the Board

  • Brad Diggans

    PRESIDENT

    I have my own Property Investment company. Sean and I grew up together starting in Kindergarten and were friends ever since. I joined the foundation to help spread his story and continue his memory in our community. I really enjoy helping our community, helping veterans and current military, and having fun with our friends and family at the events like Sean would want us to. I enjoy playing/coaching soccer, golfing, and spending time with my family. I love to travel and explore new places especially if they are warm and have beaches.

  • Dave Kraft, Lt. Col., USAF (Retired).

    VICE PRESIDENT

    Professional Airline Pilot and Close Family friend of the Ruane's. Fellow Air Force Pilot, service member and Montour Alumni. Dave retired from the US Air Force Reserves with the 911th Airlift Wing here in Pittsburgh after over 30 yers of service. He was the Deputy Commander of the 911th Operations Group and the former Commander of the 758th Airlift squadron. He had 9 tours of duty to various overseas locations supporting combat operations. He was a command pilot with over 5700 military flying hours including 465 combat hours. His flying experience also includes over 4500 hours of commercial airline time as a Captain with a major airline. Dave graduated from Montour in 1987 and went on to Kent State University where he graduated in 1991. His hobbies include hunting, fishing, hiking, running and boating. He resides in Moon Twp. with his wife, Johnette. His Daughter, Mackenzie teaches at Montour. You may have seen him paying tribute to local veterans on Memorial Day and Veteran's Day during his fly overs of local cemeteries and parades with the C-130 and the C-17 aircraft.

  • Chris Hearn

    TREASURER

    Works in Finance. JFK is sometimes credited with the phrase, “A rising tide lifts all boats”. I’m part of the Foundation because there is a significant need for those who have the willingness and ability to do good for the benefit of others, to act accordingly. Sean understood that need and took it upon himself to not only save the lives of other men and women dedicated to that principal, but to train and mentor the next generation of rescue pilots. There are far too few individuals who appreciate personal sacrifice the way that the members of our American Military members do. My involvement in the Captain Sean M Ruane foundation is only the smallest fraction of sacrifice by comparison but is the very least I can to do give of my time to benefit others. I was the Best Man in Sean’s wedding, I’m an avid traveler, especially when there are opportunities to try new food and I love any kind of live concert or music

  • Doug Beasock

    SECRETARY

    I work in Bank Operations. I went to high school with Sean and graduated with his sister Katie in 2002 from Montour. One of the best things about Sean was his ability to bring many people together. This was most evident when he would bring ‘circles’ of people together. A specific memory which describes this was during Marching Band when people often associated by instrumentation, he would cross those ‘lines’ just to make others feel welcome and valued. His ability to do this without being the center of attention, even at that age made him a great leader. These are attributes that continued through his life. My personal values are very much in line with the mission of the Foundation. I’m proud of the impact we make in the local community and the military support we offer. In my spare time I enjoy golfing, fishing, cooking, & relaxing with family and friends.

  • Marcia Ruane

    CO-CHAIR OF THE BOARD

    I am a Retired Registered Nurse. I truly love this group. They keep my son, Sean with me through their hard work. I very much enjoy time with Liam, Gardening, Camping, Volunteering, and Boating at the GPAC on Neville Island.

  • Mike Ruane

    CO-CHAIR OF THE BOARD

    I am a Retired Crane Operator. This foundation was established to honor my son, Sean. I enjoy any time I can get on my motorcycle or my boat at the GPAC. I also enjoy hanging out with family and friends.

  • Elissa Moore

    MEMBER

    I am a Realtor in the Pittsburgh Area. I believe in the mission of the Foundation and love carrying on Sean’s legacy. I am obsessed with all thing real estate, being in the woods or on the water, and dogs…all of the dogs please!

  • Steve Yurkovich

    MEMBER

    I am a Data Scientist. I am involved with the foundation to ensure that Sean's legacy of aiding those in need continues. I have a rewarding career in the Nuclear Power Industry, which has allowed me to travel the world applying my expertise in data analytics. Beyond my profession, I'm a nature and outdoor enthusiast. I love exploring our National Parks and participating in many activities including hunting, shooting, archery, and hiking. At home, I find genuine enjoyment cooking for others.

  • Ali Baldauff

    MEMBER

    I am a High school math teacher at Montour. Sean was one of the most loving and giving person that I have ever known. He would give the shirt off of his back to a stranger and then take them out for dinner and drinks. I am honored to give back to the community in such a small way so that people can hear Sean’s story. If one person’s life changes because of Sean’s story, then the purpose of our foundation has been served. I am a mom of five and I love being outside biking, swimming, playing pickleball, anything active. I married my high school sweetheart and recently celebrated our 20th anniversary.

  • Jamie Headrick

    MEMBER

    I am a Sales Manager for a nationwide company. Sean was a very good friend of mine. He was kind-hearted, funny and generous- so much so that he put his life at risk to save others. I'm honored to be a part of this foundation because we help many people in his memory and are able to give back to our local community. The best part is, we do it alongside friends and family - the way Sean would have wanted it. I enjoy traveling, cooking, reading and being active outside.

  • Scott Daly

    MEMBER

    I am a 6th Grade Teacher. Sean was great at many things but there are two that stand out to me that are reasons I wanted to be part of this foundation. He was great at helping people as was evidenced by his role as a rescue pilot. He was also a friend to all, and was great at uniting different circles of friends that may not have connected if it weren’t for him. Being part of the foundation allows us to opportunity to help others with the money that we raise and connect with new people who become friends of the foundation through the events we take part in and host. Fun Fact: I’ve been to 25 of the 30 current MLB Ballparks.

  • Tracy Abernathy

    MEMBER

    I am a University Field/Grant Coordinator. I am part of the Foundation to honor Sean, keep his memory alive and help serve others and the community. I enjoy the beach, kayaking, traveling, going to sporting events, spending time with family, friends and my precious dog, Chloe. I have interest in photography, Greek dancing, and doing arts and crafts in my spare time.

  • Doris Glance

    MEMBER

    I am happily Retired. Sean grew up with my son, Jason, they were friends & graduated together from Montour. Family time is very important, visiting Grandchildren. Skyping with family in Poland. A also enjoy socializing at American Legion Post 862!

  • Phil Meyer

    MEMBER

    I am Electrician, and Godfather to Sean. Served our country on the USS Forrestal while in the Navy & the Air Force as a loadmaster, flight examiner. Just enjoy time with family and friends, and that this group continues to honor my Godson in such a profound way.