John was the oldest of five children who were all raised in Greeley. He graduated from Greeley West High School in 1971 and enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corp. Upon his honorable discharge, he returned to Greeley where he worked for Ross and Reed Adamson at Adamson Mortuary for several years before heading to Edmond, Oklahoma where he graduated in 1977 with a degree in Mortuary Science from Central State University. During his time in school, he was fortunate to have worked for the Smith and Kernke Funeral Home.
John returned to Greeley in December 1977, and began to raise his family. He was immensely proud of his three children and the adults they became.
John lived his life with dignity and kindness, serving families in funeral service for over 50 years. He spent the past 16 years caring for families at Stoddard Funeral Home. His compassion and innate ability to connect with others helped comfort families during their most difficult times.
John leaves behind his three children: Ben Rutledge (Christa) of Laporte, Colorado; Joe Rutledge of Loveland, Colorado; and Ashley Combs (Andrew) of Platteville, Colorado; four grandchildren, Emmaline, Tanner, Lia, and Brandon; four siblings: Tom Rutledge (Beverly) of Grand Junction, Colorado; Barb Emerson (Scott) of Littleton, Colorado; Mary McHardy (Chip) of Waipawa, New Zealand; and Andy Rutledge (Roxanne) of Lakewood, Colorado; as well as his beloved dogs, Gus and Juju.
John was preceded in death by his parents.
A Celebration Of Life will be held on Saturday, January 22, 2022 at 1:00 p.m. at the Alllnutt Funeral Service – Macy Chapel, 6521 W. 20th Street; Greeley, Colorado 80634.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.stoddardsunset.com for the Rutledge family.
