Leroy R Rutter passed away at home on June 24, 2024. He was born in Wilmington, DE to the late Raymond and Mary (McCullough) Rutter on June 7, 1932.
He graduated from Wilmington High School and attended the Philadelphia Textile School. After discharge as tank commander in the 180th Thunderbird Division; Lee remained active in the Paul N. Dill Chapter 2 of the Korean War Veterans of Delaware holding many offices culminating in Commander. Having joined the Masons, he progressed to the penultimate 32 degree. An avid football fan, he was a 40 year ticket holder for the Fighting Blue Hens of the University of Delaware. His tailgates were things of legend.
Beginning his textile career at Bancroft, Lee then owned Texpert Industries knitting mill, worked as a quality control manager at J.G. Hook, concluding with his retirement from Wilmington Finishing.
Lee was preceded in death by his wife of 49 years, Patricia A. (Handlin) Rutter and his siblings, Clifford, Earl, Harold Rutter and Marion Cook. He is survived by his children Mark Rutter (Sue), Laurie McLaren (Scott), Patricia “Trish” Rutter (Robert Bird), Susan Rutter, his sister, Ellen Fitzgerald, his grandchildren Ellen and Nancy, and a great grandson Alexandre.
After a private interment, a memorial service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, July 1, 2024 at Mount Salem United Methodist Church, 2629 W 19th St, Wilmington, DE 19806. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in the name of Leroy Rutter to Mount Salem or a favorite charity. To send condolences visit: www.mccreryandharra.com.
