Thomas Edward "Tom" Ruckstaetter

Thomas Edward "Tom" Ruckstaetter of Richland, MI and Log Cabin, TX

Tom, age 73, died peacefully at his residence and with his loving family by his side on Sunday morning, June 5, 2016.

Tom, the son of George A. and Ruth (Sturtz) Ruckstaetter, was born in Oak Park, IL on March 12, 1943; moved to Michigan in the early 50's and was a 1961 graduate of Portage High School. He was a Sales Engineer for Richland Machine & Pump Company for 20 years, retiring in 2005. Tom was a long time member of Gull Lake Bible Church and also Faith Community Baptist Church of Log Cabin, TX, where he and his wife, Nancy wintered 6 months of the year. He was an avid hunter; enjoyed playing his guitar; was constantly puttering in his garden and taking care of his lawn. Tom was a huge Gilmore Car Museum enthusiast having been spent many hours at the different shows, and he enjoyed reading about the Civil War and the Marines in WWII in the Pacific. Tom will best be remembered for the lasting friendships he cultivated - some remaining strong for over 60 years.

Tom was united in marriage to Nancy A. (nee: Schewe) on November 30, 1974 in Portage, MI. Surviving is his wife on 42 years, Nancy; his daughter, Jessica L. Ruckstaetter of Portage; his son, Richard J. "Rick" (Susan) Ruckstaetter of Midlothian, TX; two precious grandchildren, Abigail J. and Elizabeth G. Ruckstaetter; his father, George A. Ruckstaetter of Carol Stream, IL and a brother, James (Patricia) Ruckstaetter of Chicago, IL. Tom was preceded in death by his mom, Ruth.

The Funeral Service to celebrate Tom's life will be held on Thursday, June 9th at 11:00 a.m. at the Gull Lake Bible Church, 1491 Midland Drive, Hickory Corners, MI 49060 with the Rev. Gary T. Cantrell, Pastor, officiating. Family and friends will continue Tom's life celebration with a time of fellowship and a luncheon in the Church Social Hall immediately following the Service. Tom's family will greet friends on Wednesday, June 8th from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Richland Chapel, 9170 East D Avenue (M-89) and one hour prior to the Service at the Church on Thursday. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Tom's honor may be directed to Special Olympics Area 16, 4024 Student Recreation Center, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI 49071.