Rudolph Muto spent a lifetime in the service of others. As a father, husband and physician he was an integral member of our community and family. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his children and grandchildren on Wednesday morning, January 30, 2008.
Dr. Muto was born in Avellino, Italy in 1927. He attended the Lyceum at Orvieto, the University of Naples and graduated from the University of Bologna School of Medicine. He came to Boston and completed a residency in general surgery at the Mt. Auburn Hospital and specialty training in Thoracic Surgery at the Overholt Clinic. He married Phyllis (Tirone) and settled in the Merrimack Valley where he went into private practice.
It’s hard to begin to describe how one man could be responsible for so many. He was a tireless anti-smoking campaigner. He was instrumental in removing cigarette machines from public places long before the dangers were well known. He also visited many schools throughout the Merrimack Valley encouraging young people not to smoke. He took AP biology students from Brooks School and introduced them to the operating room and in doing so inspired many to pursue a career in medicine.
He was the consummate surgeon, always innovative, progressive and compassionate. He took care of many cancer patients, young and old, and was available when patients’ families of colleagues needed him. His ability to be available for emergencies was unparalleled, and it was often said that no matter who was in trouble, Rudy Muto was there even before the nurses could hang up the phone. His surgical skills were a rare gift; he always made it look easy, especially when placing a pacemaker.
He always saw a way to improve his technique or solve a problem. This led to his many patents and inventions, ranging from surgical instruments to new techniques in the diagnosis and treatment of lung disease. He spent much of his spare time tinkering in the “machine shop” and was always ready to explain his ideas with great enthusiasm.
He was the ultimate Renaissance man, with a passion for the classics. He enjoyed reading Greek Philosophy, Roman History, his favorite poet was Dante. A lover of all things Italian, including fast cars and he was an avid tennis player until his death. His greatest passion, however, was his family. His devotion to his children and grandchildren was absolute. Through his tireless example, his children followed in his footsteps, into the health profession. He was happiest when with his family. He celebrated his eightieth birthday, surrounded by all his children and grandchildren overlooking the Parthenon, fulfilling his life long dream.
He is survived by his wife, Phyllis, his sons Michael G. Muto, MD, Mark R. Muto, MPH, and daughter Paula M. Muto, MD. His daughters-in-law, Janet Muto, Bettina Graves-Muto and son-in-law Jonathan K. Gordon, MD; grandchildren Katie, Stephanie, Christopher, Nicole, Emma and David. Brothers Antonio and Mario and sister Adele, as well as many nieces and nephews.
He will be missed by the community he served, especially at the Holy Family and Lawrence General Hospitals where he dedicated so much of his professional life. His absence creates a loss in the fabric of the medical community. His legacy will live on through the lives he has saved, the colleagues he has supported, and the family whom he has inspired.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Dr. Muto’s name may be made to the Caritas Holy Family and the Lawrence General Hospitals.
Calling hours were held in the Burke-Magliozzi Funeral Home, 390 North Main Street, Andover, Friday, February 1, 2008. A funeral mass was celebrated in St. Augustine Church, 43 Essex Street, Andover, Saturday, February 2, 2008, at 9:30 AM. Many relatives and friends respectfully attended. Burial was private. For additional information, please visit, www.burkemagliozzi.com.