JOHN (JACK) ALEXANDER RUTHERFORD

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JOHN (JACK) ALEXANDER RUTHERFORD Peacefully, at home on the farm that he loved, John Alexander (Jack) Rutherford passed away surrounded by his family and the fields that he tilled most of his life on March 12, 2008. He was cared for until the end by his loving wife of 58 years, Lois, and his devoted daughters, Wendy and Jo-Ann. He leaves with wonderful memories his children, Larry and Lena Rutherford, Wendy and David Fielder, Jo-Ann Rutherford and Rick Henderson, Randy and Nancy Rutherford and Rick and Janice Rutherford. He was blessed with his eight grandchildren, Miranda, Ryan, Ashley, Michael, Scott, Chad, Kara and Shea. He also leaves his well-loved sister, Mary Meinschein. Jack was born December 21, 1920 to Alex and Nellie Rutherford. He spent his youth on farms in Rosser and Grosse Isle. In 1949, he married Lois Revel and built the house in which they spent the next 58 years, adding on to it on a regular basis until he figured if he took out one more wall it would fall down. Jack was handy in everything - he helped build three more houses on the property - known affectionately as the Rutterites. He knew where every tool could be found on the farm - and this skill will be sorely missed. He was active in many organizations throughout his life. Manitoba Pool Elevators (now Viterra), The Grosse Isle Recreation Club, 4-H, Manitoba Pork Council, Canadian Seed Growers, Seniors Resource Council, Selkirk Presbytery, and the Grosse Isle United Church where he has served as an elder for over 40 years. He chaired the last annual meeting in December. Who will take up the offering now? He observed and recorded the weather in Grosse Isle for over 40 years. He gave generously of his time, especially to his children and grandchildren. If you asked Dad for help - he would always come. So last fall when Rick needed help swathing, he climbed on the self propelled for one last harvest - at the age of 86. He loved his garden and flower beds and we always thought that he would die with a hoe in his hand. We are sure that the corn in heaven will have a particularly good harvest this year. Jack's family would like to thank Michelle, Maureen and the staff at Palliative Care for enabling us to keep Dad at home. A particular thanks to Judy, Verna, Laurie and Vivianne, who not only made Dad comfortable but helped us all so much during these last days. A huge thank you to all the friends, relatives and neighbours who have been there for the family on this journey. Please join us in the celebration of Jack's life on Wednesday, March 19, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at MacKenzie Funeral Home, Stonewall, officiated by Rev. Don McIntyre. Bring your stories and share the memories afterwards at Grosse Isle Hall. Flowers gratefully declined. If friends so desire, donations may be made to the Grosse Isle United Church Memorial Fund, Box 27, Grosse Isle, MB R0C 1G0 or Southwest District Palliative Care, Box 1282, Stonewall, MB R0C 2Z0 MacKenzie Funeral Chapel, Stonewall in care of arrangements

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 15, 2008