Bernard Rutzke

Age 87, of Elmira passed away on Tuesday, October 31, 2017, a heart of gold stopped beating at Robert Packer Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Bernard was born on March 4th, 1930, in Elmira, NY to the late Joseph and Sophia Kozdemba Rutzke. He entered into the arms of his loving wife of 62 years Jean Golata Rutzke. He is also predeceased by his son, Gerard Rutzke and brother-in-law, John Duffy, sisters-in-law, Lucille O'Leslie and Judith Golata. Bernard is survived by his children, Michael (Corinne) Rutzke, Ithaca, NY, Mary Theresa (Andrew) Keefer, Sayre, PA, Bernadette (Whang) Phang, Arlington, VA, Katherine Hoey, Athens, PA, Margaret Rutzke, Elmira, NY and Jean (Bruce) Askey, Elmira, NY; 15 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; sisters, Regina Duffy, Dorothy (John) Bellinger and SSJ Rita Rutzke; brothers-in-law, Joseph Golata, and William Golata; several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was an avid reader with his favorite topic scriptures and current events. Anyone who knew or met Bernie quickly learned he was among the most kind-hearted, humble, and caring person. His strong faith in God guided his life. He was a communicant of Ss. Peter and Paul Church. Bernard was a United States Army Veteran of the Korean War. In addition to serving his country, he was a loving and dedicated father to his family and was a caring foster parent with his wife Jean to several children over 20 years. Bernie enjoyed fishing, gardening, and picnics with his children and grandchildren. Family and friends are invited to McInerny Funeral Home, 502 W. Water St. Elmira, on Friday, November 3, 2017 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. On Saturday, November 4, 2017, there will be at 9:15 a.m. prayer service at the funeral home, followed by his Mass of Christian Burial, 10:00 a.m., at Ss. Peter & Paul Church, 161 High St., Elmira. Interment, with committal prayers and military honors, will follow at St. Peter and Paul's Cemetery. The family would like to give a special thank you to the staff at the Chemung County Nursing Facility for their dedication and excellent care. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the activity department of the Chemung County Nursing Facility.