Rodney (Rod) Ruth, 91, a woodwind doubler, bandleader and contractor, died on Nov. 17, 2025. He had been a member of Local 802 since 1958.

In high school, Mr. Ruth was already leading his own dance bands. He studied music in college, earning scholarships to both Manhattan School of Music and Columbia University. His musicianship led him to serve in U.S. Air Force bands both stateside in Alabama and overseas in Tokyo.

In 1960 he established Rod Ruth Music and began a long career contracting for various theatres, art centers, orchestras and performers, including over 40 years at the Bergen Performing Arts Center in Englewood, New Jersey as well as the former Meadowlands Arena and the Nassau Coliseum. He also contracted for Playhouse on the Mall in Paramus, New Jersey, founded by famed author Robert Ludlum. He served as music director for the concert series “40s in the 80s,” which featured live acts of 1940’s style band music mixed with film clips from the era to recreate a nostalgic atmosphere of live entertainment.

For over four decades he proudly furnished musicians for upscale parties and elaborate affairs in the private enclave of Tuxedo Park, New York. He also taught music for 37 years in Paterson, New Jersey, retiring in 1998.

Mr. Ruth kept up his performing career throughout his entire life. He was hired to play with the highest echelon of stars, including Aretha Franklin, Mel Torme, Peggy Lee, Ray Charles, Rosemary Clooney, Tony Bennett, Phillis Diller, Ann Miller, Don Rickles, Regis Philbin, Joan Rivers and Bob Newhart. He also freelanced with many ensembles including everything from the Ringling Bros. Circus to the New Jersey Symphony. He was also a first-call musician at the Paper Mill Playhouse in Milburn, New Jersey.

Mr. Ruth was proud to appear in the Marquis publication of Who’s Who in America. He is survived by his wife Gloria, daughter Tiffany, son-in-law Brandon and grandchildren Davina and Lander.