Gary L. “Rudy” Rutz, age 71, of Glen Carbon, passed away Thursday, August 14, at Anderson Hospital in Maryville. Funeral services for 71 year-old Gary L. “Rudy” Rutz are Monday, August 18 at 10:00 a.m., at the Evangelical United Church of Christ in Highland. Burial will be in Highland City Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Wesclin Athletic Boosters or VFW softball fields. Meridith Funeral Home in Highland is in charge of arrangements.
Rudy was born February 5, 1943 to Orville and Ordella (Nee Lebegue) Rutz, at St. Joseph Hospital, Highland, IL. On May 15, 2002, he married Linda Lovata.
Rudy loved, and was very active in, softball in and around Highland for more than 30 years. After softball he focused on golf and played often. What he enjoyed most was the competition and the camaraderie with his buddies. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, and playing pool and throwing horseshoes, and spending time with family and friends, especially his grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife, Linda Rutz, Glen Carbon, IL; 1 son, Rodney (Jennine) Rutz; 4 grandchildren, Roxanna, Shawna, Kiley, and Hunter Rutz; 1 sister, Carol (Tom) Naumann; 2 nephews, Chris and Dan Naumann; aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Orville and Ordella Rutz.
