Fanwood Mourns Rescue Squad Member Who Helped Thousands

FANWOOD, NJ — The Fanwood and Scotch Plains community is mourning the loss of Robert Kruthers, who helped thousands of people as a member of the Fanwood Rescue Squad since 1957.

Kruthers, who was 94 years old, died early Saturday, April 24, at Overlook Hospital.

"Bob Kruthers. One of the nicest men I've had the pleasure to meet. Volunteered with our local rescue squad since 1957 has passed away. My deepest condolences to his wife Grace and his family. Thank you for sharing him with us," said Fanwood Mayor Colleen Yewaisis Mahr.

Kruthers lived in Fanwood since 1954 and provided volunteer service in ways that have touched three generations of Fanwood and Scotch Plains residents, according to Fanwood spokesman Tom Kranz.

Kruthers held many positions with the Rescue Squad and served in several elected posts.

"As an EMT, first responder and ambulance driver, Bob helped literally thousands of sick or injured people with well over 5,000 call responses. He did so with humility and a sense of service to others," according to Kranz.

Kruthers also had a passion for church where he served as a member of St. Bartholomew the Apostle parish in Scotch Plains where he helped to keep their books, taught CCD classes, provided altar service and, as a Eucharistic minister, offered communion for homebound people.

Kruthers was also active in the Knights of Columbus and as such was a fixture at the annual Shield Awards at which the Knights recognized first responders in Fanwood and Scotch Plains. Kruthersalso spent four years as a member of the Fanwood Library Board of Trustees.

Kruthers was married to his wife, Grace, for 72 years. They met at age 7 when they lived next door to each other in Jersey City. He is also is survived by two daughters, three grandsons and a great grandson.

Kruthers was honored in 2017 for his 60 years of service. He was recognized several times by the Mayor and Council for his volunteer service. Kruthers was awarded the Lifetime Achievement award at the New Jersey Statewide EMS Conference in 2014.

Funeral arrangements are pending.

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