Melvin L. Ruminski, 86, a resident of 308-16th Street, Franklin died peacefully Sunday, March 8, 2015 in his home surrounded by his loving family; following a period of declining health.

Born June 5, 1928 in Buffalo, NY, Melvin was the son of Walter and Charlotte (Hochmuth) Ruminski.

He was raised in Buffalo, NY. He truly enjoyed playing tennis and golf. He was an ardent follower of college basketball and his beloved Buffalo Bills.

Melvin worked 46 years for Peter J. Schmidt (Loblaws, Inc.). He moved his family to Franklin in 1967. That year he opened Weston’s supermarket on the four lanes. He worked in various capacities throughout Western PA for Peter J. Schmidt. He was a store manager and a district manager. He retired in 1992 as Reset Coordinator in Erie.

Melvin was an active member in the community and at St. Patrick’s Church. He was a member of the Venango Co. Literacy Council board. He was also involved as a tutor for many years. He always enjoyed teaching others and assisting his students in passing their GED tests. Melvin also had served on the Meals on Wheels board of directors and assisted in feeding community members for numerous years.

Melvin was an active member at St. Patrick Church. He served as a choir member, liturgical reader and usher. He was honored to be selected by Monsignor John Snyder to be in the first class of lay Eucharistic Ministers.

Melvin was a leader for the Knights of Columbus Council 1020 for over 20 years. He served as Grand Knight for council 1020. He was an active recruiter for the Knights sharing his passions with countless new members. He served as District Deputy for the Northwest area for 4 years. He also served as Faithful Navigator for the Fourth Degree council.
As a K of C member Melvin was active at the Applefest every year as he ran the COAL ticket booth on the Island for many years. Melvin enjoyed writing and keeping his council brothers in the spotlight. He was well known at the state council level for the K of C. Thru his tireless efforts and design presentations, Council 1020 was honored with numerous Family of the Year awards for the entire State of PA. His presentations lead to Council 1020 receiving this prestigious award 9 times in a 16 year period. He also initiated the Council 1020 quarterly newsletter. He wrote edited and designed the newsletter for over 20 years. He submitted his final edition in January of 2015.

Melvin and Gladys were married for 64 years. They had a very special 50th Anniversary celebration at the Voyager Hotel on September 30, 2000. Over 150 people attended the party to honor their marriage with guests coming from as far away as England. They were able to enjoy many exotic vacations thru the Peter J. Schmidt Company. They traveled to many countries including Hong Kong, Acapulco, Germany, Monaco and England. Melvin was proud of his marriage and family and the legacy he left.

He is survived by his wife Gladys Ruminski of Franklin, and daughter: Theresa (David) Price of Butler. Sons: Paul (Pamela) Ruminski of Phoenix, AZ, David Ruminski of Erie and Alan (Martha) Ruminski of Franklin. His grandchildren: Amy (Greg) Oliver of Cleveland, OH, Shelia Ruminski of Westminster, CO, Shawn Ruminski of Erie, Denise Ruminski of Aurora CO, Abby Ruminski of Erie and Gregg Rautine of Harrisburg.

He is also survived by his sister Bernadette Miranda Bowmansville, NY.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Raymond.

Friends may call Wednesday 2-4 & 7-9 PM in the Timothy E. Hartle Funeral Home, 1328 Elk Street, Franklin. A vigil service will be conducted Wednesday evening at 8:30 PM in the funeral home with Deacon Richard O’Polka of St. Patrick Church in Franklin, officiating.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday at 11 AM in St. Patrick Church, 949 Liberty Street, Franklin with Monsignor John J. Herbein, pastor officiating.

Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to either: St. Patrick School, St. Patrick Church or to St. Patrick Community Food Pantry.

Please visit www.hartlefuneralhome.com for further information and to leave your note of condolence.