Obituary of James Donald Ruettinger

James Donald Ruettinger was born November 27, 1946 in Monroe, Michigan. He was one of four children born from the union of his parents: the late Elmer William Ruettinger and the late Elsie Elizabeth (Grauf) Ruettinger. He received his education from Monroe High School and graduated with the class of 1964. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1964 and honorably served our country until he was discharged in November of 1967. Jim retired after 34 years as a Machine Repairman for Ford Motor Company.

Jim met and married the love of his life, the former Toni Scheffel on June 30, 1992 and together they joined families.  They enjoyed time spent with one another in the comfort of their home or traveling to places including: Germany, The Virgin Islands, The Grand Canyon, Vegas and California.

He loved John Deere Tractors and always wanted to become a farmer but settled for a garden at home he enjoyed tending to. He was a longtime member of the Moose Lodge, VFW and Color Guard. Jim was a jokester and enjoyed making those around him laugh. His great personality and wonderful sense of humor earned him his infamous nick name: “Big Jim”.

Above anything, Jim loved his family. He adored his wife, children and grandchildren and cherished time spent with them. There will forever be a void in the hearts of everyone who knew him, and he will be deeply missed.  

James Donald Ruettinger, age 71, of Monroe, passed away on Tuesday, November 20, 2018 at his home under the care of Promedica Hospice. His passing is preceded by his sister: Jan Ruettinger and his parents.

To cherish his memory, he leaves his wife of 26 years; his four daughters: Stacie (John) Ciacelli, Cathie (Bobby) Herrera, Melissa (Randy) Magargle and Christie Moore; three step-sons: Bryan (Lisa) Osborne, Steven Osborne and Eric (Lisa Ball) Osborne; his sisters: Ann (Richard) Stanifer and Nancy (George) Fletcher; 17 grandchildren; and 7 Great Grandchildren.  

Friends and family may gather on Saturday, November 24, 2018 from 1:00pm to 4:00 at the VFW Post 1138, 400 Jones Ave, Monroe 48161 for a Celebration of His Life. Please bring your favorite pictures and memories to share with the family during this time. Arrangements have been entrusted to Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734)384-5185.

Online guests may leave words of comfort and inspiration or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com. Donations can be made to the family.