Donald A. Ruese, 71, of New Bremen, died at 7:43 p.m. Feb. 3, 2011, at Joint Township District Memorial Hospital, St. Marys, of injuries sustained in a fall.

He was born June 12, 1939, in New Bremen, to Howard and Alice Bushman Ruese. On Nov. 11, 1961, he married Carol Sue Oldiges, who survives.

Also surviving are three children, Timothy L. (Elizabeth) Ruese, Strongsville, Caren A. (Bruce) Reese, Lawrenceville, Ga., and Suzanne N. (Brian) Weber, New Carlisle; a sister, Lois (Carl) Rabley, Elida; and eight grandchildren.

He was a machinist at the former Dairy Farm Products and Beatrice Foods in New Bremen. He was a member of the Church of the Holy Redeemer in New Bremen, where he served on various church committees. He served on New Bremen Village Council for four years and retired from the New Bremen-German Township Fire Department after 21 years.

In addition to serving as a Little League coach and a member of the Auglaize County Sesquicentennial Committee, he was a founding member of the New Bremen Jaycees, a charter member of the New Bremen Historic Association and a member of Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 1391 of Minster.

Services are 10:30 a.m. Monday at the church, the Rev. Thomas Mannebach officiating. Burial will follow at German Protestant Cemetery, New Bremen.

Calling is 2-6 p.m. Sunday at Gilberg-Hartwig Funeral Home, New Bremen, and after 9:30 a.m. Monday at the church.

Contributions may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, the New Bremen Fire Foundation or the New Bremen Historic Association.