Barbra Rudvall Schutte: November 6, 1926 – May 30, 2023

Barbra Rudvall Schutte, born November 6, 1926, in Fresno California, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2023, in Montecito, California

Robin had a very full life with many accomplishments. She was a woman ahead of her time, who was gifted in so many ways. Born in Fresno California, she moved after college to San Francisco and started the beginning of a long string of successes. 

She developed her passion for architecture at her first job in the big city. She learned about design, interiors, and antiquities, exposing her to a beautiful world that suited her quite well. She became a woman of taste and elegance.

Robin found her true calling in the fashion world. She embarked on a 20-year career with Elizabeth Arden, and she was perfectly suited for the leadership role she embraced. She became a fixture in the Union Square Retail Management Team and enjoyed all the excitement the city had to offer.

Life got even better when she met her true love, Richard Schutte. A perfect match, they started a wonderful and exciting life together in San Francisco. While embracing Dick’s passion for sports as an avid devote of the 49ers, Giants, and Warriors, she became a huge supporter and fan of the Opera. Another career change brought her to the doors of Real Estate, where she found success both in San Francisco and later Santa Barbara markets.

Life eventually brought them back to Dick’s hometown, Santa Barbara, where they settled into a new phase of their lives. Robin embraced her new home, using her business acumen and joie de vivre to lend a hand to the local charities. Amongst her favorites were the Music Academy of the West and the Santa Barbara Historical Society, where she spent many years making a difference, as she always did, in all aspects of her life.

She will be remembered for her high standards and love of all things beautiful. 

Robin is survived by her stepchildren, Megan Walton (Bill) of San Anselmo, Will Schutte (Suzanne) of San Francisco, Susan Gruetzemacher (Dave) of Tahoe City and goddaughter Nicole DeLagnes, of Montecito. She is predeceased by her husband of 42 years, Richard H. Schutte, in 2008. 

Private services were held.