Frederick William Ruthardt

Frederick W. Ruthardt, Sr. passed away peacefully on March 26, 2022. He was 92 years old. Fred was born in Philadelphia to Frances and Frederick Ruthardt. He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Eva (nee Badjura); children, Frederick W. Ruthardt, Jr. MD (Diana), Paul Ruthardt (Carolyn), and Stephen Ruthardt; as well as 8 grandchildren, Tommy, Paige, Brennan, Caitlin, Caleb, Danielle, Logan and Victoria. Fred was preceded in death by his siblings, Charles Ruthardt, and Eleanor Cairns. Fred grew up in Philadelphia during the Great Depression, although he never considered himself poor. The way he saw it, he had everything he needed. A true optimist, he was always a glass half full guy. Fred was just a teenager when he started working at Michelfelder's Butcher Shop in the Olney section of Philadelphia. He received a partial academic scholarship to LaSalle High School and paid the rest with the wages he earned. In 1951 Fred joined the United States Army. For most of his army days he was stationed in France and he spent much of his leave traveling to Germany and exploring his roots. After the Army, Fred returned to Michelfelder's and started to seriously pursue his career as a meat cutter. About a year later he met the newly hired young girl working the deli counter, Eva. The two dated and fell in love. They married in 1956 and started a family the following year. In 1964 Fred moved his family from Northeast Philly to Southampton, where he lived the rest of his days. By 1966 Fred was ready to strike out on his own and opened his own butcher shop, Ruthardt's Quality Meats, in Southampton. In the late 80's, after years of success, Fred closed the store. A hard worker, Fred finally retired in 1994. That's when he found one of the greatest joys in his life…helping raise his grandchildren. Spoiling them the way only grandparents can, Fred and Eva (Nana and Pop Pop) shared many great adventures with the kids. Fred's happiest times were always when surrounded by his family. A wonderful storyteller, Fred would often capture an audience with tales of his childhood. Blessed with a great sense of humor, he was always ready with a joke or two. The patriarch of the family, Fred was a Philly sports fan, an avid reader, and a true Christian. Relatives and friends are invited to Fred's Life Celebration on Saturday, April 23, 2022 from 10:00AM to 11:30AM at Redemption Episcopal Church, 1101 Second Street Pike, Southampton, PA 18966. A memorial service will begin at 11:30AM. Fred's burial will be held privately at the request of his family. In lieu of flowers, donations in Fred's name may be sent Redemption Episcopal Church. To share your fondest memories of Fred and to express your condolences to the entire Ruthardt family, please visit www.LifeCelebration.com.