On March 14, 2023, Michael Theodore Rutkowski, 65, died peacefully surrounded by his family at his home in Swarthmore. He was born February 13, 1958 in Jersey City, NJ to Theodore and Dorothy Rutkowski. He grew up in Newark, DE, and West Chester and Phoenixville, PA. He graduated from Kutztown University, where he met his wife, Maureen. He and Maureen settled in Swarthmore and raised their three daughters there.
Mike was a beloved husband and devoted father who enjoyed organizing gatherings, whether it was going to a Phillies game, or spending time in Cape May, NJ. He was always generous with his time and expertise - to teach his brothers masonry for a home construction project, assist a neighbor with a car problem, replace a step at the school where his wife worked, or plant and tend tomatoes for his mother. Long after others made calls, sent emails or texts, Mike diligently mailed birthday cards and thank you notes.
Mike worked for over 40 years in the sales of heavy construction and mining equipment, primarily for Burch Materials and Supplies. He lasted so long in the industry because he genuinely loved the work, and especially cherished his clients and suppliers who became valued friends and associates. His work also allowed him to do things he really liked - spending time outdoors and engaging his gift of gab. He won numerous awards for his salesmanship, including being named to the Pennsylvania Aggregates and Concrete Association Hall of Fame in 2019.
Mike is survived by his wife Maureen, daughters Megan, Sarah, and Katharine, sister Christine, brothers Thomas and James, as well as many in-laws, nieces, nephews, and friends. He is predeceased by his parents.
A visitation will be held at Carr Funeral Home, 935 S. Providence Rd, Wallingford, PA. on March 22, 2023 from 3:30pm - 4:30pm. A memorial service will follow immediately at 5pm at Swarthmore Presbyterian Church, 727 Harvard Ave, Swarthmore, PA.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Mary's Franciscan Shelter in Phoenixville, PA (www.stmarysfs.org) or to the Swarthmore Presbyterian Nursery Day School playground fund, care of Deb Hansen, SPNDS, 727 Harvard Ave, Swarthmore, PA.
