Dr. Donald B. Ruthenberg was an inspiring figure in education, spirituality, and community service who passed peacefully on February 2, 2024 in Akron Ohio. Born in 1930, Don led an extraordinary life characterized by dedication, leadership, and profound impact – an imprint on many that will long be cherished. To remember him appropriately we explore his many accomplishments that made him such an illuminating example in so many areas.
Who was Dr. Donald B. Ruthenberg?
Dr. Ruthenberg led an impressive life filled with exceptional achievement and service to others. Boasting an education background which includes earning degrees at Baldwin Wallace College, Iliff School of Theology MA Theology MA USC MA Ed D from University of Denver his academic pursuits laid an excellent platform to contribute to higher education both within higher education and beyond; his commitment was recognized with honorary degrees from several renowned institutions around the globe.
What were Don’s major contributions to education?
Don was an active and dynamic leader throughout his education career, holding key leadership roles at Columbia College, Iowa Association of Independent Colleges and Southwestern College. Don brought fresh approaches to education that fostered academic excellence while creating engaging environments. After retirement he continued making waves within academia by building bridges between U.S. institutions and their Asian counterparts; evidence of his enduring dedication to global learning.
How did Don Serve His Community and Beyond?
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Don was also defined by his life of service to his community. From Boy Scouting (where he received recognition as a Golden Eagle) and Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity leadership through Rotary International and Scottish Rite Consistory of Masons membership; Don epitomized the virtues of brotherhood through service to others and charity work. Furthermore, as interim pastor at TanTara Resort as well as performing wedding ceremonies was evidence of Don’s strong spiritual ties within it all.
What Will Don Leave Behind?
Don is survived by five loving children, eleven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, all who carry forward his legacy of love, resilience and commitment to service. Don has also touched countless students, colleagues and community members through his educational work; community service activities; spiritual leadership efforts he initiated over his lifetime have left an immeasurable legacy on humanity.
How Can We Honor Don’s Memory?
Missouri United Methodist Church will host a memorial service and interment ceremony to remember Don at Missouri, with interment taking place shortly afterwards in their Prayer Garden. Instead of flowers, his family strongly suggests donations be made in his memory: Dee and Don Ruthenberg Scholarship at Columbia College; Dr. Donald Ruthenberg Endowed Program Fund, Parkinson and Movement Disorder Alliance or Services for Independent Living Columbia or another charity of your choosing would all make fitting acts of remembrance and support that embody his spirit of generosity and service throughout his lifetime.
What Can Be Learned from Don’s Life?
Dr. Donald B. Ruthenberg’s life serves as an exemplar of dedication, service, and the pursuit of knowledge. Through education, community service, spirituality and more he provided guidance for future generations by living a purposeful and passionate life that demonstrated how one individual’s efforts could have an immense impactful positive influence over many lives – his legacy bears testament to education’s power, the significance of community involvement and kindness resulting from kindness enduringly shared across many lives.
Dr. Donald B. Ruthenberg led an extraordinary life, one that combined academic accomplishment, community service and spiritual leadership. We remember him today to remind ourselves how one individual’s efforts can have such an immense impact. His legacy of service, scholarship and love continues to inspire both those he knew directly as well as newcomers discovering his contributions years after he has passed. Rest in peace Dr. Ruthenberg; your life’s work and spirit of generosity won’t soon be forgotten!