Thomas M. Rutz

Dear Linda and family--
It was a great joy amid great sadness to with you for the buriel and memorial events. How powerful and touching it was! You are all an amazing family and your faith and trust in the Lord was clear for all to see. The witness and impact of Tom's life was profound, and will certainly live on in the lives of the many he touched. Thanks for your kindness in arranging for my stay, while you had so many things on your mind.
May God's peace sustain you.
...

Linda: My prayers are with you and your family.

My deepest condolences to the Rutz family. Tom was one of my most memorable teachers from my years at Culler Jr high. (1977-79). He was compassionate and sincere. I was deeply saddened to hear of his passing. I am sure that being the man he was, he fought his terrible disease fiercely and with a grace that only he possessed.

Linda and Family,
For the short time I knew Tom, I feel that I was truly rewarded. During the "Time out with Tom" get togethers, I always left with a great feeling. I hope Tom got as much out of the time spent as I did.
My wife Karen and I share your sorrow in the loss of Tom. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Larry and Karen Clark

Dear Linda and family,
I just wanted to tell you all that I feel so honored and blessed to know Tom and all of you.
The Tom that I will remember is a very kind, gentle man who sang in choir with me. He always took the time to speak to me when no one else would. I will remember his quiet strength, and know that during his illness his strength was not quiet at all.
I have looked at you all and him from week to week in wonderment of the love you all had for each other. I...

To the Rutz family - my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Tom was a great guy! the best landlord I ever had!! I feel honored to have known him. As a child of a teacher, I know how special that role is...he will be missed greatly by many.

From the first time I saw Tom Rutz racing down the court to make a break away layup for the Kimball Longhorns, to the courage and love I witnessed at a "Time Out with Tom", Tom was an inspiration! He is loved and his physical presence will be missed. His love and courage will live in our hearts, forever. Thank you Linda, Shiela, Julie and Scott for sharing such a fine man with us.

My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Linda & family,
Our prayers are with you as always. Tom & you exemplified what courage & determination mean in your battle with ALS. We are blessed to have known such a great man.
Wade