Daniel J. Rutecki, age 94, husband of the late Marlene G. (Bizub) Rutecki, passed away on Wednesday, August 27, 2025 in the Southeastern Veterans' Center, Spring City, PA. Born on January 4, 1931 in Buffalo, NY, he was a son of the late William and Barbara (Tamol) Rutecki.

Mr. Rutecki was a graduate of Burgard Vocational High School in Buffalo, NY, after studying Aviation Mechanics and honorably serving in the United States Air Force. He had an engineering mind that never quit. He was always tinkering, designing, constructing, and inventing, whether it be something small that he built out of parts he found in his shed, or his first home, a cabin he built in East Aurora NY. His technical mind also developed two patents in his name, including a remote car starter that he invented in the 1950s, and a bicycle designed with an alternate form of propulsion.

Mr. Rutecki had a long career with General Electric in King of Prussia. He worked as a space sciences engineer, which led to his work testing pressurized space suits for NASA in the 1960s. He was also involved with the testing and experimentation of new chemical reactions and processes, as well as new concepts and products.

Mr. Rutecki obtained his private pilot's license while living in Buffalo and enjoyed riding his 1940s Harley-Davidson shovelhead motorcycle. He was an avid scuba diver and, along with his friend Dick Barter, often could be found aboard the AquaLab, diving in the Niagara River and on Lake Erie.

He was also passionate about wildlife and photography. Caring about his mind and body led Mr. Rutecki to living a healthy lifestyle, which was important to him. Each day into his 90s, he would walk the Schuylkill River Trail, trails in Valley Forge Park, or even in a mall if the weather required.

After losing his beloved wife he had a second chance for love in his heart and was able to find happiness again. He enjoyed wonderful times and adventures traveling to many places around the world with his friend and companion Nuha Hababo.

Mr. Rutecki is survived by one daughter, Lynne, wife of Daniel Stewart, Jr. of Phoenxville, PA; one grandson, Ian Stewart; and many beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by four siblings, Alfred (Rudy) Rutecki, Eugene Rutecki, Teddie Rutecki and sister Hattie Garczynski.

Services will be held privately at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, consider planting a tree instead to honor his love of nature...or take on that adventure you've always wanted to do. He would love that. Arrangements are being handled by the Campbell - Ennis - Klotzbach Funeral Home, Inc., Phoenixville, PA. Condolences may be offered online at www.PhoenixvilleFuneralHome.com.