Lawrence R. "Larry" Rutan

Rutan, Lawrence R., passed away suddenly on October 19, 2025. He was 82 years old and still living life to the fullest. If you knew Lawrence Rutan, you called him Larry. And once you met him, he was your friend. His winning smile, generous spirit, huge heart and steadfast faith were pillars of his character. His life was full of faith, service, family and friends. His family were the people he loved the most and the best. He is the loving husband of Beverly Castle Rutan. Devoted father of Lawrence 'Chip' Rutan and his wife, Ali, and Jeneen Schlotterbeck and her husband, Michael. Dearly loved Pops of Tim Rutan, Sam Rutan, Kelly Rutan (D.J.), Evan Schlotterbeck, Matt Schlotterbeck and Chris Timasonravichkit and loving Great Grandpop to his great granddaughter, Izzy. Dear brother-in-law of Ed and Cathy O'Donnell and brother-in-law Richard and Joanne DeMayo. He is survived and loved by Beverly's children; Brianna Strater, Albert Strater and Travis Strater and his family. Larry began this loving legacy of family with his first wife, the late Joanne Rutan (nee DeMayo).
Larry was a graduate of Haddonfield High School and a veteran of the US Army. He graduated from Georgia Tech with his Bachelor's degree and began his working career as an Electrical Engineer at a firm in Philadelphia. He then got his Teaching Certificate and Master's degree in Education at Rowan College as God led him to pursue a teaching career. He went on to teach Math at Maple Shade High School for over 30 years where he made lifelong friendships and touched many students' lives. He raised his family in Cherry Hill and Larry was involved in the community and his church. He enjoyed his handyman business which he did on the side when he wasn't teaching. This was just the beginning of Larry's desire to help others. The foundation for that came from his faith in the Lord. He was actively involved in many ministries in his church and served as a Deacon, most recently at Crossroads Church of Shamong. He went above and beyond in whatever he was doing. His faithful servant's heart motivated most everything he did. The consummate volunteer, Larry also loved to fish (even when he didn't catch a thing), crossword puzzles, and adventures. Even in his late 70's, he learned to kayak so he and Beverly could enjoy it together.
Relatives and friends are invited to gather with the family for a visitation and a Celebration of Larry's life. The visitation will be held on Saturday November 22, 2025 from 9-10am at Crossroads Church of Shamong 445 Oakshade Road Shamong NJ 08008 where a Memorial Celebration will be held at 10am.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Larry's memory to Crossroads Church of Shamong crossroadschurchnj.com and click on the Giving button or to Seeds of Hope Ministry https://www.seedsofhopeministries.org/ and click on the Donate button.