Robert Sterling Rutty

Robert S. Rutty of Ivoryton, CT passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 27, 2026, at the age of 81. Robert (Bob) was born on July 12, 1944, in Middletown, CT and was a lifetime resident of the town he loved, Ivoryton. He graduated from Valley Regional High School in 1962.

He started his career working as a pressman at RR Donnelley’s, then at the New Haven Register while simultaneously working as a heavy equipment operator. He then changed careers to work at the Valley Railroad, a job which he loved, performing maintenance and welding. Making another change in careers, he became head of maintenance at various properties before starting his own landscaping company, which was his true passion, and he did so until he retired.

He was a member of the Essex Fire Engine Company #1 for 35 years, serving as a Deputy Engineer and on numerous committees through the years.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents Lewellyn and May S. Rutty. He is survived by his wife Roseann Bennett Rutty – the love of his life, his son Kevin M. Rutty, daughter in law Christine M. Rutty, and cherished grandson Landon J. Rutty.

Bob loved working with his hands. He enjoyed building and repairing things and never was one to just sit still and not be doing something. From building his own home and a house for his parents, to building equipment, and trailers to starting his own landscaping business. He was a man with many skills – he taught himself to do landscaping, plumbing, electrical, roofing, siding, welding, car repairs and equipment maintenance. For rest and relaxation, he loved camping and time with friends and family, sitting around a campfire telling stories and making people laugh.

Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours at Swan Funeral Home, 1224 Boston Post Rd, Old Saybrook, on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 - calling hours are from 1-3 p.m. followed by a celebration of life gathering.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Bob’s name to the American Heart Association at https://www.heart.org/en/honor-memorial