Donald A. Ruzekowicz

Donald A. Ruzekowicz, 80, of Marcellus, passed away peacefully Friday at Upstate University Hospital. A longtime resident of the Syracuse area, he was a graduate of SUNY Oswego where he received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Donald was a professor and Department Chair of Mechanical Technology at Onondaga Community College. After 42 years at Onondaga Community College, he retired in 2004 as Professor Emeritus. He authored a textbook on mechanical technology and was instrumental in establishing CAD at OCC and in the local high schools. He was active in Boy Scouts with his son Mark, and was a member of the Polka Knights band. He enjoyed traveling by train and cruises, fishing, woodworking and was a talented carpenter. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family. He was a member of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church.

Donald was predeceased by his parents, Anthony and Mary Ruzekowicz and sister, Maryanne Fitzgerald.

Surviving are his wife of three years, Eileen Robertson, with whom he had a loving 40-year relationship; children, Debra (Bill) Swift, Maureen Novak, Mark (Nadia) Ruzekowicz, Cheryl (Cass Moon) Naylor, Carlton (Nancy) Robertson and Christine (David) Collie; sister, Betty LaFlamme; nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; and two nieces and their families.

Relatives and friends may call Tuesday, January 4 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, January 5 at 10 a.m. at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 5402 W. Genesee St., Camillus. Face masks are required. Donald will be laid to rest in Woodlawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Luke’s Episcopal Church or to the Ronald McDonald House, Charities of Central New York, 1100 E. Genesee St., Syracuse, NY 13210.