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Robert Rutz Obituary
Robert D. Rutz, 87, of Rockford passed away Thursday, April 26, 2018, at his daughter's home. He was surrounded by his family that he loved so much. Bob was born in Rockford on May 5, 1930, to parents Hugo and Helga (Hawkinson) Rutz. His father built the family home on Robert Avenue where Bob was raised. After graduating from East High School, Bob enlisted in the Army and was stationed in Germany which was perfect as he was quite proud of his German heritage. He married Donna O'Rourke on March 21, 1952. They had 2 daughters and were married for 64 years. Donna preceded Bob in death on March 20, 2016. Bob was a skilled bricklayer and took a great deal of pride in his craft. He and his father owned H. Rutz and Son Mason Contractors for many years. After Hugo's death Bob worked for McGill Construction. He retired from Hogan Masonry (Naperville, IL) at the age of 72. He built his own home and worked from sun up to sundown, driving hundreds of miles each day. For many years Bob and Donna were active in the Tebala Shrine. Bob played the gong in the Oriental Band. He was an avid Chicago Cubs and Bears fan. He was particularly proud of his front yard Christmas displays. In recent years Bob really enjoyed volunteering with has daughter, Linda as part of the CAP program through the Rockford Police Department. Bob was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. His Friday's with his 4 year old great-grandsons were the highlight of his week! Survivors include children, Sharon (Al) Bain and Linda Rutz; granddaughters, Jenny (Brad Stallings) Smith-Caiozzo, Kara Smith, and Lindsay (Shawn) O'Brien; great-grandchildren, Dylan Stallings, Sullivan O'Brien, and Beckett Smith. Sully and Beckett say "Cheers to Grandpa Bobby! You are now up in the sky, through outer space, and into heaven. Peace and Love."
Cremation rites were accorded. Memorials to the family. Arrangements by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL 61108. Send online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Rutz
Sponsored by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory LTD - Mulford Chapel.
2 Entries
Carl and Mary Pearson
May 4, 2018
To Bob's family, our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this special time. I have many great memories of working on several projects with your dad. I also remember the times that I had in growing up with both of your parents.
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Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory LTD - Mulford Chapel1860 South Mulford Rd, Rockford, IL 61108
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