Donald H. "Don" Ruppert

Surrounded by his loving family, Donald H. "Don" Ruppert, 85, passed away on October 11, 2010 after a long illness. Don was born in Hamilton, Ohio. Following his graduation from Hamilton High School in 1943, he entered into military service during World War II. He was in the Army Air Force from July 1943 until April of 1946 serving in England, Scotland and France. Don loved his time in the military and the many friendships that he made. Upon his return from the military he married his high school sweetheart, Faye and started his career in the banking service with the Second National Bank in Hamilton. Fourteen months later, at the request of Don's long time Air Force friend Paul Kinsey, the Ruppert's packed their belongings and traveled cross country to Cloverdale, CA with the hope of securing a job with the First National Bank of Cloverdale. Don was successful and in 1947 he began what would become a very successful banking career, beginning as a Cashier, and receiving promotions to Assistant Cashier, Cashier, Vice President and President. Don ultimately retired 35 years later as Chairman of the Board. Under his leadership, the First National Bank expanded from a single local bank to opening branches in Ukiah, Boonville, Gualala and Healdsburg. First National Bank was purchased by Independent Bankshares holding company, later becoming Westamerica Bank. When he retired, Don and Faye enjoyed the first 18 months of rest and recreation traveling in their motor home, then wanting a new challenge Don got his real estate license. He spent two years as a realtor and then in 1985 he joined Western Title Company as Escrow Officer. In May 1986 he opened the Healdsburg office of Western Title as Manager. Don retired a second time from full-time employment with the Title Company in 1988. During his career, Don was well known throughout the State in the Banking industry serving in professional organizations including California Bankers Association, Regional Advisory Committee on Banking Policies, American Institute of Banking and Comptroller of Currency. Don Ruppert was described in banking publications as "setting a leadership example of hard work, cooperation and competence that has contributed much to Banking growth". Following retirement, when asked what he missed most about banking, Don was quoted as saying "In my 33 years, my banking career was my second love. (my wife) Faye is my first." This statement truly describes the man that Don was. His first focus and priority was his family. He was a loving husband and remarkable Father, Grandfather and Great Grandfather who never let a day go by without telling his family that he loved them. He will be greatly missed and will forever be alive in our hearts. Don was very active in the community of Cloverdale holding positions on the Chamber of Commerce Board and the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Board and the School District Board of Trustees. Don helped form the Cloverdale Hospital District, was a [former] member of the Rotary Club and Knights of Columbus. For anyone who knew or met Don, they will remember his love of Cloverdale. Don is survived by Faye, his wife of 63 years; his sister Geraldine Ruppert of Cloverdale, his children: James (Kitty) Ruppert of Santa Rosa, Carol Giovanatto (Michael Pigoni) of Cloverdale; loving Papa of Dawn (Anthony) Michalek, Michael Miller, Laura (Terry) White and great grandfather of Delaney and Amanda White. Visitation will be Sunday October 17th from 3:00 p.m. with a Rosary Service starting at 6:00 p.m. at Fred Young Mortuary, Cloverdale. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Monday October 18th at St. Peters Catholic Church, Cloverdale. Private burial services at Oakmound Cemetery in Healdsburg. Donations may be made to the Cloverdale Volunteer Firefighters Association, 451 S Cloverdale Blvd, Cloverdale, CA 95425. FRED YOUNG F.H. CLOVERDALE, 707-894-2540