Thomas Rut

Thomas (Tom) Rut passed away suddenly in Stockton, CA on 8/20/26 at the age of 83. He was born in Cicero, IL to Marie and Nathaniel Rut. He is survived by his younger sister Nancy, daughter Laura, son Joe, and grandchildren Max and Krysta. He was married to Patricia (Pat), nee Moers, for 59 years until she passed in 2024. He was a devoted husband and loving father/grandfather.

Tom graduated from the Illinois Institute of Technology in 1965 with a B.S. in civil engineering. He moved to California after graduation to work for Caltrans and eventually held licenses in civil and structural engineering. He worked as an engineer for 43 years, including 33 with Caltrans, culminating with a management position with the California State Bridge Maintenance Engineers. He was responsible for many aspects of bridge maintenance and design for 25,000 bridges in California. During his time there he wrote and presented papers on bridge design and maintenance, including at international conferences in both Denmark and Korea. In addition, he was Vice President of 2 different consulting firms and ran his own consulting firm for 21 years. He encouraged others to go into engineering by supporting scholarships and speaking at schools.

Tom was very active in the Stockton community. With his young kids he was a Boy Scout leader, Little League coach, and Bobby Sox coach. He was always active in his church and had many close friends there. He and Pat joined a Model A Ford car club, The Delta A’s, in the 1990s and they relished their group meetings, touring trips and other events. He wrote several articles for the Model A Restorer Magazine. He worked on the Model A judging standards committee, of which he was made Chairman in 2018, and helped write and publish the updated judging standards. He was running for board member of a national Model A group (MAFCA) when he passed. He loved that his involvement in the club led to so many friendships and adventures later in life and wanted to make sure that opportunity was available for others.

Tom loved the outdoors and enjoyed camping, fishing and boating. He also loved trains, both model and real. He celebrated his 80th birthday by driving a steam locomotive. He also golfed regularly and loved a good game of cribbage or Scrabble.

Tom will be remembered for his many accomplishments but more so for his loving, friendly nature. He could talk to anyone and make them comfortable. He was always willing to lend a hand, whether it was helping with engineering, car or personal issues. He had a long, full, and happy life. He will be deeply missed by all of his family and friends.