Donald Gene Ruger Sr., 89, passed away peacefully at his Somersworth, New Hampshire home surrounded by his loving family.  Donald was born February 15th, 1936, in Kittery, Maine to Bernard P.  Ruger and Edna M. Ruger.

Donald attended Traip Academy and joined the Unted States Air Force shortly after graduating.  After receiving an Honorable Discharge in 1962 from the Air Force, Donald went on to work at the Portsmouth Shipyard before retiring in 1990 as a General Foreman of Shop 64.

Donald had many hobbies including camping, making many friends with his characteristic quick wit and humor.   He loved watching his beloved New England Patriots, enjoyed hunting, snowmobiling with the gang, and tinkering in his wood shop as a master craftsman.   His true passion was being on or near the ocean from clam digging to striper fishing, he loved the salty air and the bounties he brought home.

Donald was loved and adored by all who knew him and would always light up the room anywhere he went with his dry humor.  Donald was a most dedicated husband, father and grandparent.

Donald is survived by his wife for almost 67 years, Anita V. Ruger of Somersworth, New Hampshire. Children: Donald Ruger Jr. and his wife Laura of Berwick, Maine, Kathy Beaudoin and husband Norman of North Berwick, Maine, Kelley Jenkins and her husband James of Eliot, Maine and David Ruger of Alfred, Maine.  Donald had 10 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

Visiting hours for friends and family will be held at the J.S. Pelkey & Son Funeral Home 125 Old Post Road Kittery, Maine on Tuesday October 21st, 2025, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers one can donate to Operation Blessing 600A Lafayette Road Portsmouth, New Hampshire 03801. Care for the Ruger Family has been entrusted to the JS Pelkey & Son Funeral Home.