The small-town girl was born and raised in southeast Alaska in the tiny hamlet of Wrangell. Her father, James H. Wheeler Sr., settled in Alaska in the early 1900's and became a very successful businessman. She was extremely proud of her Alaska roots which she carried with her until the end of her life.
As a young woman, Lois moved to Seattle where she met the love of her life, Robert P. Rutledge. She married her sailor in September 1945 at the end of WWII. Together for 69 years, “Toni” (as she was known to her friends) and Bob settled in North Seattle, raising four children and staying in the north end for the remainder of the lives. She took great pride in raising her children, supporting their school activities and endeavors as adults. She also loved her nine grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren, supporting them to advance their post-high school education. Meeting her first great-great grandson on her 101st birthday brought a twinkle back to her eyes and a glimpse of the loving "Grammy" she had been for 50 years.
Lois will be remembered for her love of music and the arts. As a young woman, she attended Washington State University on a music scholarship and later sang on local radio during the war. Her household was always filled with singing and dancing--particularly anything to do with Frank Sinatra! One of her favorite activities was playing ragtime piano for her friends and family.
Lois was preceded in death by her husband, Robert, daughter Shelley and son Robert C. She is survived by her sons, Rory (Jeannie) and Zane (Jody), nine grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.
She will be interred next to her beloved husband, Robert, at Acacia Memorial Park in Seattle.
In lieu of flowers, Lois would be honored by donations in her memory to the museum in Wrangell, AK, where she proudly donated many historical items from her family's collection.
The Nolan Center
296 Campbell Dr.
P.O. Box 1050
Wrangell, AK 99929
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