Donald Rutkowski

Donald E. Rutkowski, 62, of Waterford, died Wednesday, September 19, 2018 at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Erie. He was born in Erie on April 9, 1956, the son of the late Melvin and Jane Wellman.

Don grew up in Edinboro, attended General McLane High School, and served in the United States Marine Corps.

He was a mechanic and worked in the auto parts business for many years. He worked at several places, including Heise Rebuilding and Advance Auto Parts. He was a lifelong auto and motor enthusiast, a NASCAR fan, and had many creative hobbies.

Survivors include his girlfriend, Diane Johnson; his children, Rose (Daniel) Surma and Sean Rutkowski, both of Erie, and their mother, Diane Rutkowski; 2 step children, Matthew and Danielle Ranyak of Waterford; 2 brothers, Mel (Michele) Wellman, Jr. of Union City and C. Edward (Jennifer) Wellman of Edinboro; also 3 grandchildren, Caleb Kline, Jackson Surma and Liam Renaud; and many extended family members.

No calling hours will be observed, service will be private, and burial will be at a future date.

The Glunt Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., Edinboro, is in charge of funeral arrangements.

Memorials may be made to American Cancer Society and Erie VA Medical Center; Wish List. To send condolences please visit www.gluntfuneralhome.com.