Dennis Ruttle

Washington- Dennis M. Ruttle, 69, of Washington died at 3:00 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013 at his home with his family by his side. Denny was born on May 2, 1943 in Chatham, Ontario, Canada and as an infant was adopted by his loving parents Joseph and Olga ( Malensky) Ruttle of Detroit, MI. Denny graduated from Cass Technical High School in Detroit, and later from Michigan Technological University in 1965 with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering. Denny married Doris I. Wiitanen on July 30, 1966 in Hancock, Michigan. She survives. Also surviving are his two daughters Julie (Jason Short) Brunk, and Laura (Dave) Fager all of Washington; 6 grandchildren Nathan, Nicholas and Katherine Brunk and Joshua, Jarred and Ashley Fager; 1 great-grandson Trenton; and 1 sister- in-law Diane ( Paul) Reali of Pekin. Denny retired in July 1997 as a senior test engineer in fuel systems after 32 years of service at the Caterpillar Tech Center in Mossville. He was affectionately known as “father” to many due to his willingness to help anyone in need. He had an innate ability to diagnose and fix almost anything and was always willing to share his time and talent with everyone. He was happiest when he was busy. He loved reading, traveling, boating, spending time with family and friends and building street rods and participating in street rod events. His talent was rewarded with many awards. He could most often be found in his extensive workshop where he thoroughly enjoyed restoring and building automobiles and machining parts for his or his friends’ cars. Denny was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 1988, and therefore believed in living everyday to the fullest, never letting grass grow under his feet. Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington will host one last Car Show in Denny’s Honor on Wednesday February 20, 2013 from 5-7 PM where the family will receive friends. Everyone is welcome to bring their car and wear Car Show attire. Thanks to Illinois Cancer Care, Illinois Neurological Institute, OSF Hospice and a loving and supportive family, Denny was able to end his journey on this earth at home with his family by his side.

Dennis Ruttle

May 2, 1943 - February 15, 2013