Donald Kerutis

Donald Kerutis, age 91, lifelong resident of Detroit, passed away December 20, 2023. He was born on May 29, 1932 in Detroit; son of Frank and Lottie (Vedro) Kerutis.  Donald graduated from Chadsey High School; class of 1950.  He proudly served his country as a Damage Controlman Third Class on the U.S.S. Kirkpatrick in the United States Navy during the Korean War.  Donald was united in marriage to Delphine (Gawenda) Kerutis on September 4, 1954; they spent 68 years lovingly devoted to one another until her death on September 26, 2022.

Donald began his career as a Heavy Equipment Partsman sourcing and selling parts with Teleford and Doolend in Detroit.  He had the ability and skill to recall many part numbers and took a special interest in Drag Link parts.  After 25 years with the company, he took a job with AIS Construction in Milford and later Wolverine Tractor in Redford before retiring in the 90’s.  Donald was an incredibly hard worker and often worked multiple jobs to support and care for his large family.

Donald was a parishioner of St. Andrews Catholic Church in Detroit where he was active with the Knights of Columbus.  He was also a member of Local 324 Operating Engineers Union and the Polish League of American Veterans.  Donald found joy in the simple things in life and being at home with his wife and family.  He and Delphine were inseparable and did everything together from cooking to shopping.  They truly enjoyed each other’s company.  Donald loved dogs and always made sure he had a furry companion at home.  He enjoyed reading spy novels and action novels, especially the ones that were historically and strategically accurate.  He also enjoyed watching movies and sports on television.  His greatest passion was building scale models of all types, including airplanes, tanks, and ships.  Donald intricately glued together and hand painted hundreds of models throughout the years which he proudly displayed in his home.

Donald is survived by his children, Mark Kerutis, Brian (Sherry) Kerutis, Jacquelyn (John) Kuhn, Dean (Jyll) Kerutis, Denise Swann, Susan (Michael Thibodeau) Bysorik, and Donna Spehar; his daughter-in-law, Brenda Kerutis; 12 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; his sister-in-law, Virginia Kerutis; and his nephews, Jay Kerutis and Jeffrey Kerutis.  He was preceded in death by his wife, his son Keith Kerutis, his grandson John Eric Kuhn, his parents, his brother Mike Kerutis, and his nephew Michael Kerutis.

Per his request no services will be held.

In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate memorial contributions to Polish League of American Veterans, Post 10, 11824 Jos Campau, Hamtramck, MI 48212.