David Michael Rutti

November 10, 1949 - February 1, 2021
David Michael Rutti

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David was born November 10, 1949 in Cleveland, Ohio to Rocci and Isabel (Ruggieri) Rutti. On July 27, 1974 he married the girl-next-door, Catherine (Janke). They were happily married for forty-six years. Together they lived in the city, the suburbs, the country and at the beach. At 2:07 am, early Sunday morning, January 31, 2021, Dave made his way to his final home in Heaven after waiting for his wife, Cathy’s okay. They have three daughters. He is the proud Daddy of Andrea, Briana and Deanna, and has high regards for and deep friendships with his sons-in-law, John Watkins, Jason Zeigler and Mike Sing. He is an even prouder Papa of his grandchildren, Jake, Colt, Nirvana and one soon to arrive. He strived to help everyone with everything.

Dave was a State Farm agent in Brunswick, Ohio for twenty-three years, running his one-man business in a congenial manner. He retired early to fulfill Cathy’s dream to live at the beach. There he worked Walmart and Freddie’s Italian Restaurante—he especially loved Freddie’s. He found joy in music—any kind, any instrument; dirt bikes; any task that put him outside to play in the mud. He was genuinely interested in anything presented to him. A mathematical challenge was his specialty. It was undeniable that Dave was passionate about his close-knit family. It was heartbreaking to watch him, a person in perfect health, be defeated so quickly by pancreatic cancer. Dave is already greatly missed by those who love him.

There will be a private ceremony at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Dave will be laid to rest in a columbarium niche at The Basilica Shrine of Saint Mary.

Eternal rest give unto them, O Lord.

And let perpetual light shine upon them.

May they rest in peace.

Amen.

We love you, Papa, Daddy, Dave.

Please share memories and condolences with the family by clicking on the “Post a Condolence” tab below.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, 1535 S.41st Street Wilmington, NC 28403. 910.791.9099


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  • February 04, 2021
    Russell Ruggieri says:
    My prayers are with the RUTTI family during these trying times. I will pass the news along to his cousin Michael Ruggieri, my brother.

  • February 04, 2021
    Charlie Hunt & Sherry. Walmart says:
    Dave will truly be missed he was a great friend and co worker. Our prayers are with your family

  • February 05, 2021
    Patti Rose lit a candle:
    Lit since February 5, 2021 at 2:24:23 AM

  • February 05, 2021
    Jerry Lucido says:
    So very sorry for your loss, dear North Carolina cousins. He kept you fully in his heart and held you close spiritually. Your close presence was what he wanted and needed. He led the life he chose and what a gift that is. May you find peace in his love, memory and influence on your lives.

  • February 05, 2021
    Jason Northway says:
    May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. I remember having many conversations With him on the floor and in the backroom when I was the grocery. Manager. he was very insightful and non judgemental. He was always working and was a team player. He will be missed and loved forever. Jason Northway