Donald R. Rutherford, 68, of Eufaula, OK, passed away peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by love, on Saturday, June 3, 2017 at his residence. Don was born on October 27, 1948 in Springfield, the son of Donald Russell and Marie Mae Carlton Rutherford. Don proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps during Vietnam. He earned a Purple Heart and a Combat Action Ribbon during his service. He was an outgoing man who enjoyed fishing, hunting, and playing poker. He was preceded in death by his parents and five siblings. He is survived by his son, Rusty (wife, Penny) Rutherford of Springfield; one daughter, Teresa Fowler of Poplar Bluff, MO; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; two sisters, Pamela Aldridge of MO and Sharon Deheeve of Auburn; one brother, Dale Rutherford of Auburn; and several nieces and nephews. Cremation was accorded prior to ceremonies. Memorial Gathering and Memorial Ceremony: Family will receive friends from 10:00 until 10:45 a.m. on Monday, June 19, 2017 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. A Memorial Ceremony will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Celebrant Judy Woerner officiating. Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery. The family wishes to give a special thank you to Michelle Gagnon for calling her uncle Don every day.
