Ronald J. Rutkowski's Obituary
Ronald J. Rutkowski, age 85, of Avon, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at Brookdale of Westlake.
Born and raised in Lorain, Ron built a life rooted in hard work, quiet strength, and deep loyalty. He made Avon his home for the past 60 years as a loving father, where he raised his family and formed lifelong friendships.
A proud graduate of Lorain High School, Class of 1958, Ron went on to serve his country in the U.S. Navy, an experience that shaped his discipline, resilience, and sense of duty.
Ron spent his career as an electrician, working at Fruehauf Trailer Company and then Ford Motor Company in Avon Lake for 28 years before retiring in 2003. He was a dedicated member of UAW Local 2000 and took great pride in his craft and the people he worked alongside.
For more than 50 years, Ron was deeply involved in AA, a community that became like a second family to him. He didn’t just attend meetings — he showed up for people. Ron sponsored countless individuals over the decades, offering steady guidance, a listening ear, and the kind of honesty that came from lived experience.
He had a gift for meeting people exactly where they were, without judgment, and reminding them that change was possible. Many who crossed his path credited Ron with helping them find their footing, rebuild their lives, or simply make it through one more day. His commitment to service was quiet but unwavering, and the ripple effect of his support will continue in the lives of those he encouraged, mentored, and believed in.
Ron is survived by his daughter Ronda Toth (former husband, Jim) of Avon Lake; his son Eric (Helena) Rutkowski of Aurora; his stepson Burke; and seven grandchildren who brought him immense joy: Marlowe, Weston, Taylor, Gabriel, Xavier, Enzo, and Caio.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Helen Rutkowski, and his stepdaughter, Terri Barila.
Family and friends will be received from 2–5 PM on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at Bogner Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 36625 Center Ridge Road, North Ridgeville. Funeral services will be held at 10 AM on Monday, February 2, 2026, at the funeral home and will be Livestreamed on Bogner Family Funeral Home Facebook page.
In lieu of flowers, the family would like to donate to Alcoholics Anonymous in Ron’s name. Please send contributions to Eric Rutkowski at 11696 Chamberlain Road, Aurora, OH, 44202-9735. Upon receiving your gift, the family will match your contribution as a gift to the Lorain County Intergroup Office of AA.
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