ANDOVER - Rudolph Muto spend 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, Jan. 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 always available when patients' families or 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.

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