Jane W. Rutan

1922 - 2016

Rutan Jane W. Rutan, age 93, of Delaware, passed away Wednesday, June 29, 2016 at Willow Brook Christian Village. Born on September 6, 1922 in Syracuse, New York, she was one of three daughters born to the late Paul and Bithia (Schwendener) Whitney. In 1948, she would marry Robert Rutan and together they shared almost 60 years of marriage, raising their family in Webster, New York. After retiring in their winter home of Zelwood, Florida they moved to Delaware in 2004 to be near family and became active members of the Willow Brook Community. Jane was the consummate wife and mother, tending to every need for her family doing so happily and without effort. For a time she felt privileged to transpose books into braille for the US Library of Congress. She also enjoyed a passion for the game of golf, especially during her time in Florida. Described as one with a gentle spirit; she was always positive and present in her life and in the lives of her treasured family. A family of whom she was most proud along with their accomplishments, they remain her legacy as does her enduring friendships and humble zest for life. She is survived by her children, Cynthia (Jim) Higgins-McCann of Marblehead, MA, Nancy (Jim) Bartha of Delaware, Rob (Trude) Rutan of Walnut Creek, CA; eight grandchildren, Dan (Jenni), Jane, Whitney, Molly, Alex, Colin, Caitlin (Steve), Taryn (Andy); six great-grandchildren, Addie, Whitney, Olivia, Charlotte, Eleanor, Norelle; and a host of Willow Brook friends. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Robert in 2007 as well as sisters Virginia Cleaves and Dorothy Levis. Services for her family will be held in Rochester, New York at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to the SNYDER-RODMAN FUNERAL CENTER in Delaware. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Willow Brook Foundation, 100 Willow Brook Way S., Delaware, Ohio 43015. To share a condolence or special memory visit: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com