Obituary of Joseph Rutten

Joseph Gerard Rutten Well-known stage, radio, film and television actor, passed away on Wednesday, June 21, 2006, in QEII Health Sciences Centre in Halifax at the age of 75. Born in the Netherlands, Mr. Rutten immigrated to Canada in the fifties. His 60 year career as a professional performer included eight seasons at the Stratford Festival, three national tours with the Canadian Opera Company, over 30 productions at Neptune Theatre and countless other performances at theatres across Canada and the United States. He was a veteran of over 200 CBC Radio dramas and countless television and film performances - most recently appearing as Pope Calixtus in the feature film "The Conclave" and in the mobile device movie, "The Electric Chair". A life member of ACTRA, Mr. Rutten served as Branch Councillor for ACTRA Maritimes. He was also a very knowledgeable connoisseur of classical and folk music with a wide-ranging personal collection of recordings. He is survived by son, Paul, and daughter, Wendy, both of Calgary, Alberta; by his mother, Wilhelmina Muiters of The Hague, Holland, and half-brother, Hans Flierman in Maassluis, Holland. Joseph was a good person who made a tremendous contribution to the performing arts. He will be missed by the Halifax performing arts community. His last words were, "I have always been grateful for every opportunity to perform my art." Burial will take place in Brookside Cemetery, Bridgewater, following notification of next of kin. On-line condolences may be made at www.sweenysfuneralhome.com