Donald Rutherford

Donald Rutherford passed away peacefully, with all of his children at his side, on June 11, in the year of our Lord, 2013. Donald was born on January 31, 1930, the son of Otillia and William Clifford Rutherford, on a farm near Winner, South Dakota. He was one of 6 children. At a young age Donald's family moved to a farm near Butte, Nebraska, where he lived until adulthood. As a young adult, Donald ventured far from home, joining the United States Air Force, where he proudly served his Country for 20 years.

Donald was united in marriage to Bernitta Jean Kindall on October 7, 1950, and remained faithfully by her side until her death in 2011. Donald and Bea (as she was fondly called) raised 6 children and were foster Parents to 13 newborn babies. Donald was a loving husband and father.

Donald's accomplishments in life included many awards and accolades that he received during his military service, and community awards presented to him for his holiday decorating, making his home and neighborhood a site to behold. Donald's proudest accomplishment was raising his family. Donald was a proud Veteran and Patriot. Donald was a friend to many and never meant a stranger. He was always ready to give a helping hand to anyone in need and was always generous with his time and talents.

Donald lived most of his life in the Denver area, where his parent's and siblings, along with many nieces and nephews lived. While in Military service he was often stationed in Denver. He also lived in many other places across the United States in service to his country. After Donald's retirement from the Air Force in 1970, Donald moved his family permanently back to the Denver area. He worked in Civil Services and retired a second time in 1991. As his children were all grown at this time, in 1999, he and his beloved wife moved to Mesquite, Nevada to live out their retirement years. One of Donald's and Bea's favorite past times being gambling, this suited them perfectly. In 2011, Donald's beloved wife and partner of 62 years, departed this earth to wait for her sweetheart in Heaven.

Donald leaves behind his 6 loving children, Sherry Albin of Plainview, Nebraska, Gloria Peddle of Castle Rock, Colorado, Rickey Rutherford of Canastota, New York, Leighann Huntington of Centenial, Colorado, Michelle Rutherford of Aurora, Colorado and Michael Rutherford of Aurora, Colorado, Merlin Peddle, son-in-law, Dawn Rutherford, daughter-in-law, Curtis Huntington, son-in-law, and Jen Rutherford, daughter-in-law, 19 grandchildren and 29 great grandchildren. He also leaves behind his sister, Elsie Brown of Colorado. Donald was predeceased by his 2 brothers, Charles Rutherford, and Terry Rutherford, and 2 sisters, Grace Sieh and Gladys Miller.

Donald will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Donald is in Heaven, once again united with his bride and Our Lord and Savior.

Services will be held at Virgin Valley Mortuary on Wednesday, June 19, 2013 from 8:00 to 8:45am. Graveside services will follow at the Mesquite City Cemetery, with full Military honors, where he will be laid to rest in eternal peace beside his beloved wife.