Kathryn E. Rutan

Kathryn E. Rutan, 92, of Washington, died Monday, December 17, 2007, in Hawthorne Woods, following a three-month illness. She was born May 4, 1915, in Washington, a daughter of J. Frank and Gretta Belle Miller Rutan. She was a 1932 graduate of Washington High School and attended night classes at Washington and Jefferson College. After graduation, she worked locally in a closed bank, in the office of the Administrator of the Washington Trust Building, and as a legal secretary in the Offices of Patrono, Ceisler, Edwards and Pettit, and later in the office of John C. Pettit, Esquire. After the formation of the Borough of Green Hills, she served as the first borough secretary. During her lifetime, she faithfully served the First Christian Church, where she was a member. She taught Sunday School in the Children's Department, taught classes for youth and adults and served as an elder. Miss Rutan was also a leader in the church's Christian Women's Fellowship, as well as a member of the Chancel choir and Bell Choir. She was active in Church Women United. Miss Rutan had a great interest in music, having studied piano and organ. She was a member of the former Monday Music Club, where she had served as program chairman and secretary-treasurer. Miss Rutan also had an interest in drama and attended productions locally as well as in Hickory, Pittsburgh, Morgantown. She was an avid reader, had an optimistic perspective and a sense of humor that could find a bright spot in any situation. Surviving are a brother, Glenn C. (Marybelle) Rutan, of Ravenna, Ohio; a niece, Gretta Belle (Fred) Frances, of Coraopolis; and two nephews, James E. (Jinny) Shearer of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and Robert A. (Dolores) Rutan of Ann Arbor, Michigan. Deceased are siblings, Mabel E. Rutan, Arthur S. Rutan, Kenneth W. Rutan and Gladys A. Shearer. She was a loving and caring person and will be missed but not forgotten by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. A celebration of life service will be held at11:00 a.m. Thursday, December 27, 2007, in First Christian Church, 615 East Beau Street, Washingting, with Rev. Heather Waltz-Simpson, pastor of Mt. Lebanon Christian Church, officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Donnell House, Hospice Care of the Washington Hospital, 155 Wilson Avenue, Washington PA 15301. Arrangements are being handled by William G. Neal Funeral Homes, Washington.