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Gerard Rutan Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Gerard Rutan
Julie McDonald
April 15, 2011
I was a student in Professor Rutan's classes from 1998-2000 and he was amazing. I still quote things that he said to my family, my girls, my friends. I was riveted by his brilliance and how he was able to put things in "lay terms". He obviously LOVED what he did and was a passionate teacher. Fair, funny, witty. I am so sad to hear of his untimely loss, but I know he'll be educating the angels in heaven!
Julie McDonald
April 15, 2011
I was a student in Professor Rutan's classes from 1998-2000 and he was amazing. I still quote things that he said --I quote them to my husband, my girls, my friends. I was riveted by his brilliance and how he was able to put things in "lay terms". He obviously LOVED what he did and was a passionate teacher. Fair, funny, witty. I am so sad to hear of his untimely loss, but I know he'll be educating the angels in heaven!
Ernie Nygren
April 10, 2011
Dr. Rutan was a great blessing in my life.
I was so very fortunate to have studied under him.
He has now gone to his eternal home and to much deserved reward for his many years of faithful service. He was a man of Faith, Hope and Love.
Cindy Sofka
April 9, 2011
Pat, we are so saddened to hear of Jerry passing, he will be truely missed. His readings on Sundays were always a pleasure to listen to. We are happy to have had the honor of knowing Jerry. God rest his soul and prayers to you and your family at this time. Cindy will miss reaching out for his hand at church at Sunday mass. Love to you always Jerry, rest in peace our friend.
Cindy, Jim and Matthew Sofka
April 7, 2011
Dear Bill and the rest of the family. I knew Jerry at the University of Montana in 1957-1958. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. May God bless him and all of you in this moment of grief.
Norman Buffington
April 7, 2011
Dear Bill and the rest of the family. I knew Jerry at the University of Montana in 1957-1958. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. May God bless him and all of you in this moment of grief.
Kathy Nyman-Wendt
April 5, 2011
Dear Pat,family and friends, How can one be saddened and gladdened at the same time? I am so saddened you will miss your wonderful husband, father, grandfather, friend and teacher, but I am also gladdened that Jerry is no longer in pain and that heaven rejoiced when he walked in. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Kathy Nyman-Wendt
April 4, 2011
Pat & family, my first great memory of Jerry was when he baby-sat for my 4 boys when they were little. They loved him because he played with them, he was their favorite. Prayers for all of you.
Dorothy Schroer Lorang
April 4, 2011
I WAS SO SORRY TO HEAR OF JERRY'S PASSING. I WAS A HIGH SCHOOL CLASSMATE AND STILL REMEMBER HIS VALEDICTORY ADDRESS. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALL.
SUE MILLER, GEORGETOWN, TEXAS
April 3, 2011
Jerry's Loved Ones: We offer our condolences at this time of your great loss. May you know the guidance and support of Our Lord Jesus Christ as you walk thru the days ahead. We are never alone when we allow God to be our Guide and Friend. Our church fellowship is remembering you in prayer.
Calvary Chapel of Great Falls
Romans 8:11
Marlene Wardinsky
April 3, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
April 3, 2011
Dear Rutan Family, I am sorry for the loss of your brother, Jerry. I have fond memories of working with your mother and father on St. Gerard Festivals. They contributed so much to the event and the parish. My daughter, Susan, remembers Patty and sends her sympathies also. Eileen Pritting
Jerry Schroer
April 3, 2011
Dear Pat and family,
Our prayers are with you and all your loved ones. I have many fond memories of the Rutan family, as well as you Pat and your family from back in the St. Gerard days. God bless you all.
FR. RAY MAISER
April 3, 2011
Dear Pat and the Rutan & Tice families,
It was great to last see Jerry at The Memorial for Fr. Arbanas. I seldom get up from Seattle to Bellingham any more but if I can get away on Thursday I'll be up for the funeral. It should be sort of a St. Gerard's parish reunion, just as Jerry's arrival in heaven will be.
Peace,
(Fr.) Ray Maiser
Mary Dickinson
April 2, 2011
Dear Joe and Rutan Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Dr. Rutan was one of the best professors I ever had, but he also was one of the kindest people I ever met. I am better for having known him. When I was a senior in the Political Science Department at WWU I also worked in the department office. Dr. Rutan would always make a special point to say hello to me every day, and was reluctant to assign me chores when it was my turn to work for him because he would rather that I study instead, in order to "make my dreams come true." (I used to have to teasingly remind him that was my job, but he always would argue back, "no, your real job is university.") Suffice it to say, he enjoyed teaching. I will never forget his attitude of no dream being impossible, but still having to put forth effort to make sure it comes true, which is something I have carried over to my own students today. I am truly sorry for your loss.
Very truly yours,
Mary L. Dickinson
April 2, 2011
Dear Patty, Decades of memories...! I have so enjoyed knowing Jerry all these years. He was such a great guy... wonderful to talk with and always with a smile. Much love to you and your family. Pat Clarke and Charlie, too...
Linda Rhea
April 2, 2011
Dear Pat and family,
Please accept my deepest sympathy with the loss of Gerry.He'll be missed by many.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Sincerely,
Linda Rhea
April 2, 2011
Dear Pat and family,
Bob and I will miss Jerry in our get togethers. He was a fighter and did well for a long time. He is at rest now and we thank the Lord for that.
Audrey and Bob Swanson
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