John Wayne Rutherford

JANUARY 19, 1948 - AUGUST 4, 2024

John Wayne Rutherford 76, passed away at his home in Topeka Kansas on August 4th 2024 after a long battle with illnesses.

John was born on January 19 1948, to Oadis Burrell (O B.) and Wilma Arlene (Rene)Rutherford in Garden City Kansas.  He was one of five children Tom, John, Jack, Margie, and Sarah. 

After graduating from Tribune high School John joined the Army, he also met the love of his life Barbara Marley. Together they had for children Tammy, Trudy Trent, and Teresa. John and Barbara were later divorced.

John loved animals and even went to Colby community college to veterinary school. He also loved being a cowboy, ranch hand.  He loved horses, tending cattle, and feed lots.  Later in life John became interested in mechanics and had his own repair shop

Anyone that knew John knows his love for his dog's. Even the neighbor dogs would grace his door steps for some treats and pets.  John is proceeded in death by his beloved Millie, and Maverick is staying within his stomping grounds

John is proceeded in death by his parents Oadis Burrell  (O B.) and Wilma Arlene (Rene), along with his brother Tom. A brother in law Don.  John is survived by his brother Jack (Vicki) Rutherford, Margie ( Rusty) Littlejohn,  Sarah (Donald) Dunn (Jayme Riley), John is also survived by his children Tammy( James) George, Trudy Lewis, Trent (Laurie) Rutherford, and Teresa (Steve) Meier. 

John is also survived by 13 grandchildren, Autumn  (Kolbie Amptmeyer), Austin George, Joseph and Sierra Becerra, Josh and Shawna Evans, Robert and Alex Lewis.  Trever Rutherford, Wyatt and Mary, Wade, (Aubrey Naasz), Will Rutherford, Alex, Shelby, Jon, Allison Meier. John is also survived by 8 great grandkids. John is also survived by several cousins, nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers donations can be sent to the funeral home (Angels Above, or the humane society where John had found his companions.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.