Obituary of Wayne A. Rutz

Wayne A. Rutz, Sr., 82, of Rome passed away November 28, 2021 at Oneida Healthcare with his loving family, who adored him, by his side. Wayne was born August 9, 1939, in Rome, a son of the late William and Gladys (Burleigh) Rutz. Wayne was united in marriage to the late Shirley I. Piersall. She passed away in 2005. Wayne later shared his remaining years with his sweetheart Kathie Nole. Wayne worked for many years as a truck driver until his retirement. Wayne was the sunshine of his family. His quick wit and sense of humor drew many friends. Wayne was an avid hunter and fisherman and found great pleasure spending time outside surrounded by natures blessings. Wayne is survived by Kathie Nole; a stepmother, Rose M. Rutz; three daughters, Annette Rutz, Rose Boardman (Bill) and Mary Gerace; daughter-in-law, Donna Rutz; step-daughter, Gina Aiello (Mark); step-sons, Dan DeBlois (Amy) and William DeBlois; a sister, Wanda Antilla; a brother, Walter Rutz; nine grandchildren, Ronald, Matthew and Christopher Poland; Aleshia and Gordon Chandler, Jacob and Jessica Allemann, Shree Fink and Wayne Rutz III. Wayne was also blessed with twenty great-grandchildren and one on the way. Wayne was predeceased by two brothers, William and Warren Rutz; a step-son, Angelo Madonia; and the apple of his eye, his son, Wayne Rutz Jr. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, December 2nd at 3:00 p.m. at the Verona Seventh Day Baptist Church, 6775 Blackmans Corners Rd., Verona, NY 13478. Family and friends are invited to call at the church on Thursday prior to the service from 1-3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Wayne’s memory to the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association. At his family’s request, if you plan to attend the services, please wear a mask. Arrangements have been entrusted to Nunn and Harper Funeral Home, Inc., 418 N. George St., Rome.