James Michael “Mike” Rutig, 62, passed away Saturday, May 15, 2021 in Leesburg, FL. Born on October 26, 1958, he was a fifth generation Floridian and a lifelong resident of Leesburg. He was the eldest child and only son of the late James Dominic “Jimmy” Rutig and Stella “Shirleen” (Courtoy) Rutig.
Mike graduated from Leesburg High School in 1976 and attended Lake Sumter College. He first went to work at age 13 for Coachwood Colony working summers and after school. He retired, after nearly 30 years of employment, with Dura-Stress, Inc., where he was the Plant Safety Director. After retirement, he was the primary caregiver to his mother for over nine years.
Dutiful and devoted to his family, he was actively involved in the lives of and was adored by his three nieces and four great nephews. He attended all events – every birthday party, music recital, and numerous sporting events – from the moment each were born. He was thoughtful and would often show-up to help anyone with any task, whenever he sensed he was needed. He enjoyed car and boat shows, shopping for antiques, and architecture. He was a member of First Baptist Church, Leesburg and had many fond memories of youth activities and summer church camps.
He is survived by his two sisters, Sandra L. Rutig and Nancy Rutig (Gordon) Reid; three nieces, Nicole (Sean) Blevins, Katie (Travis) Blevins, and Jamie (Greg) Jamanila; four great-nephews, Donivan and Noah Blevins, Dominic and Luca Jamanila, as well as numerous cousins.
A Memorial Service in honor of Mike will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Sunday, May 23, 2021 at First Baptist Church Chapel, Leesburg, with Rev. Gary Blanchard officiating.
