My deepest condolences for your loss, and I wish you comfort in this time of healing. I cannot even begin to describe the countless happy memories I have of your family and the joy you have shared with me over the years. You never hesitated to welcome me into your home. Don was such a wonderful and dedicated man, always making me laugh, and he never failed to be warm, generous, and lighthearted. One of my favorite summers was my last year at Michigan and spending that time with your family – seeing the tall ships, sailing, visiting museums, boating, kite flying, and eating everything in sight. When I attended Amanda’s medical school graduation, she took me the hotel where Don and Melissa first shared drinks after their wedding, and it was a heartwarming story in a beautiful location which reflected their kind-hearted souls and the life they would build together. When I was trying to put into words the magnitude of this loss to one of my friends, and describing the simple yet extraordinary goodness of Don, she reminded me of a child’s response to the question of why dogs don’t live as long as people. The child had stated, “people are born so that they can learn how to live a good life, like loving everybody all the time and being nice. Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don’t have to stay as long.” Her reflection was that Don was truly a blessed man – he already knew how to live a good life and did, loving his friends, family, and neighbors, always approaching each day with kindness and light. While we wish we could have kept him a little longer for ourselves, his life was lived to its fullest, so he didn’t have to stay as long.

Posted by Kellie and Family on August 9, 2018

Melissa: We were shocked and very saddened to learn of Don's death. When we moved to Michigan and came to the WPC family, we were welcomed with open arms by all, but especially by you and Don. We enjoyed spending time with you both; hearing stories of your travels, Dartmouth, rugby but mostly your girls. Don was such a kind man and engaging conversationalist and you both took the time to talk with our son. One of the last things we did before moving, was to have dinner with you both and we're so glad we did. Don, when you went home, we know He greeted you with "Well done my good and faithful servant, well done." Love to all your family and friends who will miss Don so very much.

Posted by Brenda Janocik on August 8, 2018

Melissa---We were shocked to see that Don had passed, we did not know that he was even sick! Don was a very nice neighbor and we surely will miss seeing him out tending to the lawn. Please let us know if there is anything that we can do for you, we will be praying for you all during this difficult time. May God Bless you all and keep you in the hollow of His hand.

Posted by Frank & Mary Halisek on August 6, 2018

Melissa, Rebecca, Dr. Amanda: We remain unimaginably shocked and sad to learn of your loss. There is no known way to quantify the impact this will have on your lives. While our time with your husband and dad was relatively brief, there were frequent encounters at unconventional venues where our paths crossed. We have always cherished these moments and truly share in your loss. We will do our best to attend the celebration of life service and hope to find a moment with each of you. We were all most fortunate to have played roles in his incredibly full life. Clearly our thoughts and prayers will be with you for a very long time.

Posted by Jon & Jane Streeter on August 5, 2018

Oh my! I am so sorry to hear of Don's passing. It was always a joy to talk to him and Melissa when our daughter's were in school together. I send my most heartfelt sympathy to the whole family. You will all by in my heart. Sending massive amounts of hugs to you all.

Posted by Sandy Skinner on August 5, 2018

Sad to hear of Don's passing. A truly good man - talented, insightful, and a leader. Devoted to his family -- and always had his priorities straight. Walked the walk and talked the talk. One of those rare people that we were blessed to encounter and learn from in life. thinking of the family at this time. Jeff Smith and family.

Posted by Jeff Smith on July 31, 2018

Dear Melissa & Jeff - our hearts go out to you and the entire Rutishauser family at this most difficult time. Rudy was just a great guy - and he will be sorely missed by all of us who had the privilege to be his Classmates at Dartmouth those many long years ago. Melissa - please give hugs to your girls for all of us. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Kindest Regards, Kinger

Posted by Dave \"Kinger\" King \' AXA 78 on July 29, 2018

Great memories of you in the glorious days in Hanover, Don. God bless.

Posted by Sam Coffey on July 27, 2018

It is with tremendous sadness that we learned of Don’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Melissa and daughters Becky and Amanda. Don’s love for his wife and daughters was ever present as was his belief in God. He was always generous with his time to help those in need of help with anything. We enjoyed being friends and neighbors for many years! Don will be greatly missed and we pray that Melissa and the girls can be comforted as they reflect upon the many years they were together and the quality family time they enjoyed. With our love, Wayne & Becky Kruger-Southport, NC

Posted by Wayne & Becky Kruger on July 25, 2018