Brian Rutter

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Brian D. Rutter, 35, of O’Fallon, IL, born February 18, 1982 in Belleville, IL, died Thursday, October 12, 2017, at his residence in O’Fallon, IL.

Brian was the sweetest little boy, a tenacious baseball player, loving husband and father, devoted son, brother, nephew and friend.

One of his greatest loves besides sports was teaching.  He taught at Soldan International Studies in St. Louis for the past 9 years.  He was a mentor to so many of his students and always wanted to make a difference in their lives.  He impacted so many people through his teaching and coaching which is evident by the outpouring of support from his colleagues and former students.  His legacy will live through the many lives he’s touched and the positive impact he had on them.  Brian received several teaching awards throughout his short career.  He was an amazing young man.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Edwin and Louise Rutter; his maternal grandparents, Elmer and Irene Flassig; an aunt, Laurie Flassig; and a cousin, Christian Rutter.

Surviving are his wife, Heidi, nee Smajic, Rutter;
a son, Conor B. Rutter;
a daughter, Adelina H. Rutter;
his parents, David J. and Jill C., nee Flassig, Rutter;
two brothers, Drew (Michelle) Rutter of O’Fallon, IL, and Ian (Susana) Rutter of Belleville, IL;
brother-in-law and sister-in law, Velida (Suljo) Alic;
nieces and nephew, Isabelle, Miranda, Nejra and Janus;
in-laws, Vejsil (Zineta) Smajic of St. Louis, MO;
an aunt, Janet (Jeffrey) Bauer of Shiloh, IL;
two uncles, Jerry Flassig of Leslie, MO, and Steve (Judith) Rutter of Stratford, CT;
four cousins, Jaime (Adam) Martin, Dustin (Lacie) Flassig and their daughters, Sammie, Emily, and Charlotte,  and Courtney (Tom) Ahrens and their sons, Trenton and Jaxson, and Eric Rutter.

Memorials may be made to the Conor and Adelina Rutter Education Fund in care of Bank of Belleville or to the American Heart Association. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.

Visitation:  Friends may visit with the family from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, October 17, 2017, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.

Funeral: A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, October 18, 2017 at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL, with Pastor Brian Downs officiating.

Burial will be at Lake View Memorial Gardens, Fairview Heights, IL.

 

Condolences:

42 Comments on Brian Rutter

Aunya Robertson said : Guest Report Oct 16, 2018 at 4:27 PM

I can’t believe you’re gone. You were so young. I remember nothing but good things about you. You’d ALWAYS speak to me in the hall. You knew all students by name. You always smiled. You always joked. You were an incredible teacher. You were relatable, and you understood us. I loved how you would talk to us and make the students who didn’t understand, understand the importance of discipline. I know that you truly cared. You made us all laugh too, especially to the class clowns. They’d try their best to clown in your class but you’d clown them back with a truthful joke that made us all laugh and they’d take you serious after that. You are truly remarkable and you will be missed.

  • St. Louis
  • Missouri
Nautica meekie said : Guest Report Jan 27, 2018 at 4:16 PM

I will like to say im sorry to the family , Mr.Rutter we all still think about you and how much you impacted our lives , I remember once I had a problem Mr Rutter leg was messed up so he hop , skipped did everything he could to get to me before I did someting I would regret . he awesome a teacher would never compare Mr.Rutter you helped me with real life situations FOREVER LIVE RUTTER BUTTER

  • St.louis
  • Mossouri
Quonisha Shavers said : Guest Report Dec 10, 2017 at 3:46 PM

Mr.Rutter will be missed he was my favorite teacher & always helped me in any way possible.

  • miami
  • florida
Kevin Mansco said : Guest Report Oct 19, 2017 at 1:05 PM

Brian was an inspiration to me. Every morning at Soldan High School, I would ask him how he was doing and his response was always "Living the Dream". He was always witty, and positive, he would support in anyway possible. And I will never forget our long discussions about Cardinals baseball. I'm not sure there was a bigger fan anywhere. He was great colleague, great father, and to me a great friend. My prayers are for his family, gone but never forgotten.

  • St. Peters
  • Missouri
Rayana Crawford said : Guest Report Oct 19, 2017 at 4:02 AM

Mr. Rutter ... I don't even know where to start. This loss hurts deeply. He was one of my favorite teachers in Soldan. I was a freshman in 09 when Mr. Rutter started. He quickly let everyone know he can be cool but he don't play about his teaching and will not be walked over. He earned respect from all his students. He was more than a teacher. Mr. Rutter was there when anyone needed him. He listened when I needed an ear and was a shoulder to cry on when needed as well. He didn't judge me and he definitely kept my head on straight when I needed correction. I will truly miss Mr. Rutter. My condolences for his family, wife and children. Thank you for allowing his Soldan family to come to the funeral , the service was beautiful. Mr. Rutter will always be a Soldan Tiger. He lives on through his family and Soldan family. We love you Mr. Rutter.

  • Saint Louis
  • MO
Valerie Wilson (Huggins) said : Guest Report Oct 18, 2017 at 12:47 PM

I know the morning front office will never be the same. Praying for the Rutter family during this difficult time.

  • St. Louis
  • MO
Paul Unger said : Guest Report Oct 18, 2017 at 2:55 AM

My family is heartbroken over the loss of an amazing friend. Brian's kindness, loyalty and love touched so many lives. Will will continue to pray for his family.

  • St. Peters
  • Missouri
Melissa Goodlett said : Guest Report Oct 18, 2017 at 1:42 AM

I was so terribly dismayed to hear of Mr. Rutter's passing...I'm now an AP teacher in the Hazelwood School District; however Mr. Rutter was my first teacher mentor and I'm eternally grateful for his genuine kindness and warmth, quieting my fears as a new teacher. He welcomed me into his class allowed me to practice my lesson with his kids. He told me, "no sweat, you've got it" and even gave me his teacher's certification book. That was years ago, but that memory is indelibly and warmly imprinted on my mind because, as I knew him, he didn't sweat the small stuff. I pray for Mr. Rutter's wife, beautiful children, and entire family and pray that in time, the love and memories you have of him will bring you peace. Ms. Melissa Goodlett

  • St. Louis
  • Missouri
Robert Stone said : Guest Report Oct 17, 2017 at 11:15 AM

There's no words that can describe the loss /Brian was a great person and great to know and coach /I'm so sorry and condolences to his family and everyone that was ever a part of his life

  • Waterloo
  • IL - Illinois
Kierra G said : Guest Report Oct 17, 2017 at 4:15 AM

Mr.Rutter I still can’t believe your gone you’ve taught me so much my 3 years at soldan you worked with me through a lot and helped me with a lot laughing and joking with you was always the best and I’m going to miss you Rutter Your name will always bring smiles and have the best stories behind it ........ To Mr Rutter’s Family I’m sorry for your lost

  • Saint louis
  • MO
Tre'von Johnson said : Guest Report Oct 17, 2017 at 12:18 AM

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted." Matthew 5:4 I was in Mr.Rutters' 1st period my freshmen year '09, his first year at Soldan. With him being new I tested his patience as a new teacher. He immediately drew the line and let me know "who's boss".. and from that moment I respected him for being firm but caring. You will be missed Mr.Rutter. My deepest condolences to his wife, kids and family. SIGNED~ Tre'von Johnson your favorite SOLDAN ALUM!

  • Saint Louis
  • Missouri
Miracle Baker said : Guest Report Oct 17, 2017 at 12:11 AM

For the past three years I've known Mr.Rutter he has been my friend,teacher,mentor,and coach although he coached baseball he has also coached us his student in life he told us what to expect in life he told us that things happen for a reason his all time favorite thing to do was talk about baseball may he rest in heaven forever coaching baseball and teaching we miss you RUTTER?✊??

  • ST.Louis
  • Mo
Cornelia Tolbert said : Guest Report Oct 16, 2017 at 11:53 PM

My Deepest Sympathy and Prayers to the Family of Mr. Rutter. He will be missed.

  • St. Louis
  • Mo
Anta Kane said : Guest Report Oct 16, 2017 at 11:16 PM

I was blessed to have Mr. Rutter as a teacher. He always saw the potential in his students and pushed us to be the best we could be. I remember I came to him to write so many college recommendations and he was genuinely happy for me when I received a full ride. My prayers go out to the family. May your soul rest in internal peace Mr. Rutter.

  • Saint Louis
  • MO
chitra sankaran said : Guest Report Oct 16, 2017 at 10:56 PM

My heartiest condolences to the family. Mr.Rutter was a sweet,kind person ,always greet me with a warm smile.I am going to miss him sitting in the office when i swipe in the Kronos. Rest in peace Brian ,Soldan will always miss you

  • st.louis
  • MO
Jamiah Mitchell said : Guest Report Oct 16, 2017 at 10:52 PM

Mr. Rutter, There is so much that I can say about Mr. Rutter. The first time I saw him my freshman year of 2009, I couldn’t quite figure him out. He was new, I was new... who would’ve known that he and I would connect so well together? He understood me not only as a student, but as a person. He gave me the realest advice that no one had ever gave me. I remember when he yelled at me one day. It was the first time he ever yelled at me. My heart sank into my back lol. Crazy thing is, my feelings were hurt because I had upsetted him. That was not even the last thing I ever wanted to make him. He was so kind, thoughtful, helpful, and full of joy. Mr. Rutter, Rest In Peace. Mr. Rutter’s family, take it one day at a time. I have a lot of crying to do now. Better out than in right? Love you!

  • Dallas
  • TX
Ernestine Shivers-Jones said : Guest Report Oct 16, 2017 at 8:20 PM

Always a kind smile! My prayers are with the family May God continue to guide and bless you...

  • Saint Louis
  • Missouri
Leslie Rennie said : Guest Report Oct 16, 2017 at 7:05 PM

I am so sad to hear of Brian's passing. He was far too young; I have good memories of him (and Drew and Ian, his brothers) at family events. Love and prayers for his wife, kids, whole family, and his students and work family.

  • Las Vegas
  • NV
Aysha said : Guest Report Oct 16, 2017 at 6:45 PM

Wow Mr. Rutter ... This was most definitely one of the best teachers at Soldan . You were my dad my whole 4 years there . I use to come ask you how baby Rutter was doing everyday . You will be missed . Sending out prayers to your family ??.

  • Saint Louis
  • MO
Harold Brewer said : Guest Report Oct 16, 2017 at 5:57 PM

I am so sorry for your loss. Brian was a great friend and colleague. I worked with him during his time at Soldan. He would always brighten up a day. He will be deeply missed. My condolences to the entire family.

  • O'Fallon
  • Mo
Christel Ludwig said : Guest Report Oct 16, 2017 at 5:12 PM

It is unbelievable! I worked with Brian for several years at Best Buy. He was the kindest, sweetest and most helpful person I've ever met. A natural in connecting with all kinds of people and never judging of anyone. I would always call him "my son". Brian, you made a difference in many of lives!! RIP! Condolences to his family!

  • Saint Louis
  • Mo
Dr. Annette Anderson Fields said : Guest Report Oct 16, 2017 at 4:32 PM

So sorry for your loss. I had the privilege of working with him at Soldan High. He had such a kind, considerate, and humble spirit and enjoyed imparting knowledge to others. I am praying for his family as they adjust to this time of transition.

  • Saint Louis
  • Missouri
Dr. Annette Anderson Fields said : Guest Report Oct 16, 2017 at 4:29 PM

So sorry for such a great loss. I had the privilege of working with him at Soldan High. He had such a kind and thoughtful disposition, and maintained a spirit of humility. My prayers are with the family as you adjust through this period of transition.

  • Saint Louis
  • Missouri
Daniel Virtue said : Guest Report Oct 16, 2017 at 4:05 PM

I taught next door to Mr. Rutter for the past four-years. Today walking to my classroom and seeing the kids huddled by the door was especially difficult. Who will patrol the halls with me, now? I hope he knew how much everybody loved him here at Soldan.

  • ST. LOUIS
  • MO
Ciara Willhite said : Guest Report Oct 16, 2017 at 3:37 PM

Although I only taught with Brian for about 8 months, it only took me about 2 minutes of meeting him to know he was a great person. He constantly made me laugh during tough times as a first year teacher, and always had a positive comment to give me. Every morning walking into school he’d be there, in that chair and would offer a ‘hey good morning’. It’s the little things we tend to miss the most. Rest In Peace, prayers to your family, friends and everyone that knew Brian.

  • Collinsville
  • IL
Chakya Marble said : Guest Report Oct 16, 2017 at 11:25 AM

Mr. Rutter was one of my favorite teachers when I was attending high school. His class was one of the classes you couldn’t wait to get to! He was such a great teacher and coach to so many young people. I am so glad that I got to know him and be taught by such an amazing and talented teacher. My condolences are with his wife, children, and family. He was so loved and appreciated by his Soldan family. He will forever and always be a Soldan Tiger!

  • Florissaint
  • MO
Tom Ogle said : Guest Report Oct 16, 2017 at 10:48 AM

Dave and Jill, I am so sorry for your loss. All that I've read about Brian tells me that the world is better place because of him. I hope memories of Brian and the love of family give you strength in the days ahead.

  • Macon
  • Georgia
Tammy O'Connor said : Guest Report Oct 16, 2017 at 4:26 AM

My deepest sympathy and prayers. Brian was a good man. I miss him, his text messages, and not seeing him sitting in the office when I come in. Brian could make me laugh even on the worst day. I feel blessed to have known and worked with Brian for the last nine years.

  • St. Louis
  • MO
Amira Suljic said : Guest Report Oct 16, 2017 at 4:24 AM

I am still speechless... I worked with Brian at Best Buy for 3 years he was one of the nicest person I met. He was always there for everyone no matter who you were or what the situation was. Brian then married my best friend of 12 years Heidi Rutter. I was so happy that she married a guy who was so sweet and was there for her at all times. After she married Brian I knew she was in the right place with the right person. I got to spend time with Brian and Heidi a lot for the past 4 years of their marriage. I got to know Brian very well and I got to see how pure his heart was towards everyone. I am going to miss having those BBQ days with Brian and just simple hanging out watching football. My condolences to his wife and his family. Brian will be deeply missed and his legacy will be carried on by his beautiful son and daughter that he left for his wife. May he Rest In Peace and always watch over his family. RIP Brian!!! We will miss you!!

  • Saint Louis
  • MO
Mahlyia Davis said : Guest Report Oct 16, 2017 at 3:11 AM

I can't believe that you're gone. You were one of the best teachers at Soldan and everybody loved you, we are going to miss the laughs and support that you gave us. Long live your legacy, you will truly be missed! #Much Love

  • St. Louis
  • Missouri
Nylah Burns said : Guest Report Oct 16, 2017 at 2:23 AM

Mr. Rutter wasn't never my English teacher but we would always talk when I walk pass his class. He always had a smile on his face he will be deeply missed by all his student's.

  • St. Louis
  • MO
Ngoc Nguyen said : Guest Report Oct 16, 2017 at 2:20 AM

I was lucky enough to have Mr. Rutter as my English teacher for my sophomore year at Soldan. He was a tenacious and caring teacher. He was always willing to help me out whenever I needed it. My condolences goes out to Mr. Rutter’s family. He will be miss.

  • St. Louis
  • MO
Kelly Moore said : Guest Report Oct 16, 2017 at 2:15 AM

I taught with Brian for six years. He was my best friend at Soldan, my "work person." We planned lessons together, took our breaks together, cotaught together. He was a caring and dedicated teacher who loved his students, his "kids." He excelled at teaching and was respected and loved by all. My heart breaks as I miss him terribly already. My love and condolences to Heidi, Conor, Adelina and the rest of Brian's family.

  • St. Louis
  • Missouri
Felicia Hayes Williams said : Guest Report Oct 15, 2017 at 11:22 PM

My daughter, Kylan, was a student of Mr. Rutter last year and she absolutely adored him. All she ever said was great things about the guy making her read Shakesphere. This lose is tremendous for so many. I pray that GOD gives Rutter's family the strength needed to go on. I am uplifting you all in prayer!

  • St. Louis
  • MO
Sue Middendorf said : Guest Report Oct 15, 2017 at 8:35 PM

We were heartbroken to hear the news about Brian. He was such a good person and friend to so many. He will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

  • St. Louis
  • MO
Jill Hasstedt said : Guest Report Oct 15, 2017 at 7:45 PM

I am so sorry for what I know is a great loss. Words cannot say... You all remain in my prayers as you absorb this and find an impossible new normal in the days ahead.

  • Belleville
  • Illinois
Joseph Eggleston said : Guest Report Oct 15, 2017 at 6:48 PM

To the teacher next door. Thank you for all your support as we muddled through our first years of teaching. You will be missed!

  • Wahington
  • DC
John Tieman said : Guest Report Oct 15, 2017 at 6:30 PM

For a public school teacher Brian Rutter 1982 - 2017 Today, the day after you died, all I remember is our classrooms next door to each other, rooms filled with chalk boards, bulletin boards, and all the times we'd say “You'll survive.” After I heard, after the denial I remember all the books we never had enough of the curtains we never had at all the students we always had too many of those endless papers with no time to grade and all the times we didn't just walk out and all the times we said to each other, “If not you, then who – who else will do this job?” Today I think of those rooms in which we sat long after the kids left, long after that last yellow bus, after the broken desk, after we picked up the torn book and threw away all the crumpled paper, after all those broken things I still hear you at 8 AM, “Get out your books and turn ...” I still see you point to a page and I reread all the emails I got from all your old students today and I'm amazed at all you have become. * * * John Samuel Tieman jstieman@aol.com

  • St. Louis
  • Missouri
Sandy Glueck said : Guest Report Oct 15, 2017 at 3:00 PM

Jill and family. Irene hairdresser. So sorry for your lost. I have heard so much about Brian and your guys. Grandma was busting her buttons every time she talked and so many pictures. She was so proud they always gave her hugs. Grandma and Grandpa was there with open arms.. God Bless your Family

  • O,fallon
  • Il
Joe Kibler said : Guest Report Oct 15, 2017 at 1:47 PM

Typically the best parts of my day are the 15 minutes before school starts in which I get to sit in the office with Brian, Ron, and Rick. There aren't many reasons why people would voluntarily get to work early, but this is one of them. Without Rutts sitting next to me...it will never be the same.

  • St. Louis
  • MO
Joseph Smith said : Guest Report Oct 15, 2017 at 1:17 PM

Brian and I coached baseball together for the past three years, as well as teaching with him since his arrival at Soldan. Words cannot express the devistating loss I feel now. I can’t even imagine how your family feels. Brian had a tremendously positive effect on his players and students. As a coach, he helped groom less talented players into skillful athletes. The number one reason we were PHL champions last year was because of how he got the best out of our players. As a teacher he was stern but caring. He didn’t just yell at the kids - he talked to them. He was always ready to help them get the most out of their life. Brian was respected by all. I am a better person because of him. I will remember him as long as I live.

  • Troy
  • Il
Rose Smith said : Guest Report Oct 15, 2017 at 10:59 AM

My prayers and condolences goes out to the family Mr Rutter will be missed here at Soldan, you have my deepest sympathy ?

  • Saint Louis
  • MO

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