William J. Rutledge passed away on January 25, 2020 at the age of 81. William was born in Detroit on December 27, 1938, the son of the late William Henry and Ann (Powers) Rutledge. He was a graduate of Detroit Cooley High School in 1957. William was united in marriage with Joan and were together for beautiful 60 year journey. After 35 years of dedicated service, William retired from Chrysler as a Supervisor. William enjoyed watching the Redwings along with the other Detroit teams, but above all his favorite was University of Michigan Football where he was a season ticket holder for over 20 years.
William and Joan spent time living in Californian, Alabama, Florida and Michigan. Their love for being in new places included seeing the world. They traveled on many cruises, visited parts of Europe, spent time in Spain, and the Panama Canal but would always return back their cabin in Walpole Island, Ontario. William also enjoyed singing with The Lanterns for 10 years and the St. Renee Goupil Choir for 17 years. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for generations to come.
William is survived by his loving wife Joan Rutledge and their children: Mary (Herman) Masse, Barbara Rutledge (Jane Plunkett), and William P. (Mattie Denise) Rutledge. He was the cherished grandfather of Robert (Pam) Masse and Steven Masse (Britanie Glaser) and great grandfather of Owen Masse. He is not only survived by his sister, Pat Accettura (Mike), but his 1st cousin, Mary Ellen Rooker, step grandchildren, step great grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews.
Visitation for William will take place on Tuesday, January 28, 2020 from 2:00 until 9:00 pm at Resurrection Funeral Home, 40800 Hayes Road in Clinton Township. A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, January 29, 2020 at 11:00 am at St. Michael Catholic Church, 40501 Hayes Road in Sterling Heights. Friends may visit the church beginning at 10:30 am.
In honor of William, memorial donations are appreciated to Henry Ford Hospice, 33464 Schoenherr Rd, Sterling Heights, MI 48312.
