Richard James Rutherford's Obituary
Richard James Rutherford, age 92, of Grand Haven passed away Monday, February 22, 2021, at home. He was born December 21, 1928, in Belleville, Illinois to William A. and Mary E. (Taliaferro) Rutherford, and he married Carol Jean Vollmer on February 24, 1951, in Spring Lake, MI.
Richard served his country in the Coast Guard during the Korean War. He has resided in the area since 1949. Richard worked for EPE Technologies as the production manager for forty years. He was an active member of Spring Lake Presbyterian Church in Spring Lake and the Charles A. Conklin American Legion Post #28 in Grand Haven. Richard previously served as president of the Buccaneer Banquet and chairman of the Cooper Industries Credit Union for six years. He also was active with the barbershop chorus and minstrel show, and he enjoyed playing softball, watching all sports, and was an avid Michigan fan, Go Blue! His other interests were deer hunting and hiking, where he would never accept a ride to his blind, even though it was a mile walk to his blind.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Carol Rutherford; children, Terry (Marsha) Rutherford, Debra (Michael) Walters and Michael Rutherford; three grandchildren: Kimberly (Nolan) Gottshalk, Nathan (Laura) Walters and Thomas (Georgia) Walters; three great-grandchildren: Grady Gottshalk, Celia Gottshalk and Lena Walters; and his brother, Bob (Nova) Rutherford. He was preceded in death by a grandchild, Justin Rutherford and two brothers, Bill and Jack Rutherford.
A public visitation will be held from 10-11 a.m. on Thursday, March 18, 2021, at The VanZantwick Chapel with masks and social distancing required, followed by a private family service with Rev. Dan Anderson officiating. Please visit Richard's tribute page to view his service. Military honors will be accorded Richard by the Charles A. Conklin American Legion Post #28 Honor Guard. Memorials to Interim Hospice or Spring Lake Presbyterian Church are appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to the VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, MI 49417. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at www.sytsemafh.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Richard?
What’s a lesson you learned from Richard?
Share a story where Richard's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Richard you’ll never forget.
How did Richard make you smile?