Donald Edwin Ruff

UPDATE: SERVICE TIMES HAVE CHANGED

Donald Edwin Ruff, age 93 of Osceola, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Tuesday, February 11, 2020.  Don was born March 15, 1926 in South Bend, Indiana to the late Edwin and Mary (Ketchum) Ruff.  Following graduation as valedictorian from Lakeville High School in 1944, Don enlisted in the US Army where he served honorably until his discharge in 1945. Following his service to our country, he enrolled at Purdue University where he obtained his bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering.  On September 1, 1950 he married Patricia L. Wood in Osceola, Indiana.  They recently celebrated their 69th anniversary. 

            Surviving is his wife Patricia and their children Michael (Dawn) Ruff, Cynthia (Bill) Deem, Mark Ruff, Matthew Ruff, Rebecca (Jack) Tisevich, and David (Pat) Ruff.  Also surviving are 18 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his siblings Robert and Eldon Ruff and Wilma Patrick.

            Due to the uncertain timing of the COVID-19 pandemic, Don's celebration of life service will be postponed until further notice.  

            Don was a licensed Professional Engineer and employed by AEP for 30 years.  He then worked for Gilbert Commonwealth Engineering before becoming a self-employed consultant for over 25 years.  During his time as a consultant, he traveled throughout the US and abroad. 

            Don was a member of the Kiwanis Club and the Elks Club in Hartford City, Indiana, the National Academy of Forensic Engineers, the IEEE, and was a former trustee of Faith United Methodist Church in North Canton, Ohio.  He also spent many hours as a volunteer with the annual Hot Air Balloon Festival and was the Chairman of the Student Home Builders Association, both in Jackson, Michigan.  Never one to sit around, he was always fixing something or working on a project.  In his spare time, he enjoyed remodeling homes and spending time with his family.  Whenever he visited his children, he wanted a list of home projects that he could tackle for them.

            In lieu of flowers, the Ruff family asks that donations be given to the Center for Hospice, 501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka, Indiana 46545.  To leave an online condolence, please follow the links provided on the Tribute Wall tab above. 

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