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.