David Raymond Rutkowski, 63, of Manistee, passed away unexpectedly Saturday evening, August 27, 2016 at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City.
He was born January 20, 1953 in Detroit, the son of Raymond and Arlene (Robinson) Rutkowski.
David is survived by his parents, Raymond & Arlene Rutkowski of Manistee; sisters & brothers-in-law and families: Michelle & Jim Davis and their children, Bradley, Jennifer & Adam of Minnesota, Deborah & John Roskowski of Washington and their sons, Ryan, Aaron & Brandon of Oregon & Michigan, Carol & John Walter and their daughter, Brianna of Manistee and Lisa & Bob Patulski and their children Eric and Emma of Coopersville, MI; and by numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, grand nieces, grand nephews, cousins and friends; and by his dog Toby.
David will join his sister Elaine Clare Rutkowski, who passed away July 1, 2000. They were great buddies and whom he loved dearly. He was also preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Ernest & Clara (Schuelke) Robinson and by his paternal grandparents, Al & Sophie (Wolski) Rutkowski.
He was an avid Red Wing Hockey fan from age 5 and loved being with the young Manistee up and coming hockey players. Many times he served as goalie for them and loved every minute of it.
David could usually be seen around town as soon as the weather cooled down to his favorite season, winter and hockey time, carrying his hockey stick and wearing his hockey gloves. As such, he acquired the name 'Hockey Dave', living most of his life here in Manistee and loved it.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 8th at 1:30 p.m. at the Johnson Funeral Home with Rev. Kevin McClaine officiating. Final interment will be in Trinity Lutheran Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral beginning at 12:30 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, those wanting to remember Dave are asked to consider a gift in his memory to either Homeward Bound Animal Shelter or the Chippewa Hockey Program.
The family wants to thank all who shared friendship and kindness with David. He had loving heart and soul and he cared so much for everyone of you, - and you all know who you are. David would say to all of you have a good life and stay out of trouble and sign it 'Hockey Dave'.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Johnson Funeral Home of Manistee. [www.johnson-funeral-home.com]
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