Donald Rutledge

ADRIAN – Donald E. Rutledge, 86, of Adrian, passed away Monday, August 2, 2010, at Bixby Medical Center. Donald was born July 7, 1924, in Alvordton, Ohio, the only son of John and Sylvia (Kuney) Rutledge. While serving in the US Navy during World War II, Don participated in the North Africa, Sicily, and Normandy campaigns. Prior to completing his tour of duty, he was stationed in Pearl Harbor. On March 23, 1946, Donald married Tillie Soto in New York City. Tillie, his wife of over 64 years, survives. Don worked for Faraday in Tecumseh for over 23 years. He was a talented woodworker, making many pieces of furniture. Don also loved photography and took many photos for a local motorcycle club. He built his own forge and made numerous knives. Don was well known in the community as an active member of the VFW Annis-Fint Post #1584, participating in hundreds of veterans’ funeral services, parades, and flag raising ceremonies. In addition to his wife, Don is survived by seven children: Vicky (Duane) Winter of Adrian; Johann (Dave) Townsend, also of Adrian; Donald (Reneé) Rutledge, Jr. of Brooklyn; Tammy Rutledge of Colorado; John Rutledge of Indianapolis; Jacquelyn (Vincent) Torres and Mike Rutledge, both of Adrian; 18 grandchildren: Robert (Candy) Jardine, Chad Jardine, Steve Winter, Kim (Craig) Davis, Melissa Winter, Rayne Rutledge, Alicia (Scott) Barnes, and Cristy (Brian) Justice, Timmaira Silvers, Patrick, Joshua, Tyler, Janeé, Mikayla, and Laken Bennion, V. Alex, Isaac, and Jaiden Torres; 18 great grandchildren; and two great great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Isaac Bennion; and three sisters, Velma Snyder, Viola Suter, and Evelyn Smith. The funeral service for Don will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 6, 2010 at Wagley Funeral Home with military honors conducted by the VFW Annis Fint Post #1584. Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Thursday from 1 to 7 p.m. You may also send condolences to the family at www.wagleyfuneralhome.com. Contributions in memory of Don may be made to Salvation Army or the VFW. Envelopes are available at Wagley Funeral Home.

Donald Rutledge

July 7, 1924 - August 2, 2010