David Michael Rutti

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

Memorial Gifts & Donations




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


Purchase Flowers

Tribute Wall

Please feel free to sign the guestbook or share a memory



Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *


  • February 03, 2021
    Paula Lucido-Schopis says:
    Dearest Cousins, It is heartbreaking to hear of our dear cousin's passing and even more difficult to comprehend his illness and how quickly David left your side. I know you all cherished each other deeply and he wouldn't depart without knowing you would be cared for and surrounded with love. He was a gentle soul who also loved a bit of excitement. As a child I remember his musical talents and as a teenager his college advice. But mostly, I know he thought the world of the women in his life and hope you will feel his watchful eye always.

  • February 03, 2021
    tony n ciavarella says:
    Dave and I were born 2months apart to two sisters and we were forever linked. Although time and distance separated us we shared our childhood friendship forever. I am saddened by his loss and pray his family can find solace from their fondest memories of Dave. God Bless.

  • February 03, 2021
    Jason Zeigler lit a candle:
    Lit since February 3, 2021 at 2:53:43 PM

  • February 04, 2021
    Ann Autry lit a candle:
    Lit since February 4, 2021 at 2:44:09 PM

  • February 04, 2021
    Tracey Kruger says:
    The Krugers were so sorry to hear about Dave. We send prayers and love to Cathy and all of the family.