Donald R. Ruthman, 92

08/23/2022

WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. — Donald Robert Ruthman, a resident of Williamstown for more than 60 years, died peacefully at his daughter's home in Maryland on Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2022, with his family by his side.

He was the beloved husband of Brenda Bates; father of Karen, Lisa and Kimberly, and grandfather of Cyan and Rhys.

He will always be remembered for his wonderful smile, sense of humor, and his hard-working nature. Everyone felt comfortable and happy in his presence. When visiting others, he was most content fixing things around their home, advising on car maintenance, and helping with math and science homework. He was a master storyteller and an amazing singer. He loved to be outdoors with the family, swimming, boating, and fishing at his summer home in South Bristol, Maine.

He was born on New Year's Day 1930 in Saugus. Enlisting in the Navy when he was only 17 years old, he served for seven years as a chief electrician's mate. He re-enlisted in the Naval Reserves and served for the next 42 years as a chief petty officer. He attended Northeastern University in Boston receiving a degree of bachelor of science in electrical engineering.

Mr. Ruthan was a design engineer for the former Sprague Electric Co. from 1955 to 1990. In his retirement, he was an electrical power consultant, as well as a substitute teacher for high school math and science. He finally took the most fun job of his retirement, working at Canyon Ranch in Lenox.

He will be cremated and his ashes scattered off the pier of his South Bristol, Maine, home. One may donate in his memory to FeedingAmerica.org.

OBITUARIES

Donald R. Ruthman, 92

Memorials

Dear Karen and family; I am so sorry for the loss of your Dad. Karen and I worked together yrs ago at Sweetbrook
from: Elizabeth Deraway	on: 09-01-2022

I'm so very sorry to learn of Don's passing. He was one of my absolute favorites, along with Brenda! So grateful to get to know them in Williamstown, and remembering all of you in my prayers.
from: Jason LaForest	on: 08-31-2022

I was sorry to hear about Don's passing. I remember him and the whole family going up to my grandparents house on Petersburg Road in Williamstown. R.I.P.
from: Jim "Cricket" Wondoloski Jr	on: 08-30-2022

I’m so sorry for your loss. Don was always so sweet when I waited on him at the Cable office. I’ve known of him for many years. My dad, Ralph Mariani worked with Don at Sprague Electric co.. May God give you great peace, comfort, strength and encouragement. Hold your memories close to your hearts.
from: Tina DiSanti	on: 08-26-2022

So sorry to hear about Don's passing. We had been neighbors for many years. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
from: Rich and Gwen Richardson	on: 08-26-2022

Karen, Lisa and Kim, I'm so very sorry to read of your father's passing. May the good memories help you through these difficult times. Sending much love, Colleen
from: Colleen Judge Martin	on: 08-26-2022