Ronny Rutan went home to his Lord and Savior on Saturday, November 9, 2024.
Ronny was born in Urbana, Ohio on July 25, 1944. He graduated from Triad High School in 1962, where he played football, basketball, track, and baseball, excelling as a pitcher. He married Brenda Blazer, his high school sweetheart and the love of his life in 1963.
Ron worked at Grimes MFG. for 8 ½ years and retired from Navistar International after 32 years. Outside of work, he was deeply involved in sports—playing, coaching, and supporting his sons and grandkids in their athletic endeavors. Later in life, he enjoyed playing golf in several leagues. Whether he was coaching, teaching, or just having fun with his sons, he always made work enjoyable.
In addition to his love for sports, Ron had a passion for history and nature. He enjoyed visiting botanical gardens, historical villages, log cabin sites, and forts. With the help of friends, he even restored an original old log cabin on his 3-acre property.
Ron was known for his kindness, humor, and generosity. He never met a stranger and always had a large, forgiving heart, ready to lend a helping hand. In 1989, Ron accepted the Lord and became a devoted servant, faithfully participating as a trustee, greeter, and choir member at his church. He especially cherished his time visiting shut-ins with David Kauffman.
For 20 years, Ron bravely battled Parkinson’s disease. In the end, he chose to donate his body to Ohio State University Hospital, hoping his contribution would help others.
Ronny is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Brenda Rutan; sons, Douglas (Angela) Ray, Deron (Amy) Bradley; six grandchildren, Jordan (Cambria) Rutan, Rachael Rutan (Zachary) Ravert, Jessica Rutan (Michael) McDonald, Megan Rutan, Jacob Rutan, Justin Rutan; seven great grandchildren, Pierce, Gemma, and Thessalli Rutan, Zoey and Chloe Ravert, Charlotte McDonald, Abigail Dunlap; sisters-in-law, Karen Bea Blazer and Karen Sue Blazer.
Ronny is preceded in death by his parents, Glen and Kathryn (Shelpman) Rutan; sister, Sharon Smith; and brother-in-law, William Blazer.
A gathering of family and friends will be held from 10 – 11:30 on Saturday, November 16, 2024, in Urbana Church of Christ in Christian Union, Urbana, Ohio.
Memorial service will follow at 11:30 AM in the church with Pastor Mike Phillips and Pastor Jeff Allen officiating.
Honorary Pallbearers; Jordan Rutan, Justin Rutan, Jacob Rutan, Zachary Ravert, Michael McDonald, and Pierce Rutan.
Arrangements are entrusted to VERNON FUNERAL HOME, Urbana, Ohio.
Memorial contributions may be made to Urbana Church of Christ in Christian Union, 1121 N Main St, Urbana, OH 43078 or Universal Home Health and Hospice Care, 921 Rush Ave. Bellefontaine, OH 43311.
Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.vernonfh.com.
