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Mary Rutan Obituary
went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, April 20, 2011 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Jodie was born November 12, 1938 to Eileen and Louie Gerhart in Des Moines, Iowa. Jodie moved to Scottsdale, Arizona in 1985 where she started her own business, MJK Designs. She was a talented artist whose feather and leather creations were collected by people throughout the Western United States. Jodie was a gracious hostess who enjoyed entertaining family and friends in their home. Her love of gourmet cooking, flower gardening, and her elegant sense of style will always be fondly remembered. Left to cherish her memory is her devoted husband, Dan Rutan of Scottsdale, Arizona, and children Ted (Mary) Brown, Julie (Kent) Cherry, two grand-daughters and two great grand-daughters all of Des Moines, Iowa. Jodie will also be missed by many loving friends and beloved dog, Nina. Jodie was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Michael Gerhart. A private celebration of her life will be held Saturday, April 23, 2011. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Lung Association. Memories and condolences may be left at the Guest Book at www.obits.azcentral.com
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Memories and Condolences
for Mary Rutan
4 Entries
Marilyn Coleman
May 15, 2011
Sincere sympathy in the loss of your loved one Ted & Mary & family. We did not know your mom but it is evident from her obituary and tributes that she was a very special lady; as are her children. God Bless! Sincerely, Steve & Marilyn (Septer) Coleman
Nancy & Carlos Hadaway
April 23, 2011
Dearest Dan, Ted, and Julie, our hearts go out to you. We are just two of MANY who loved Jodie. She was a special lady who brought happiness and joy to those around her. Her indomitable spirit and love of life and people was always evident. To know Jodie was to love Jodie! The warmth of her light will always be with us. God bless you during this difficult time. Nancy & Carlos
Diane Brault
April 23, 2011
Paul and I moved next door to Jodie almost immediately after she moved to Arizona. We became instant lifelong friends with many things in common from decorating to our love of entertaining. The fact that she and I looked alike caused people to ask us everywhere we went if we were sisters, we just eventually started just saying yes since we felt like sisters of the heart. We moved to Chicago 4 years later, but remained very close. She bacame our oldest son's "Arizona mom" because he was in school in Tucson, so we visited often. She has been one of the most special ladies in my life, and I will miss her terribly. My heart goes out to Dan, Ted, Julie and all the others who love and miss her just as Paul and I do. However, I am so thankful she is no longer in pain. Bless you, sweet Jodie--we will love you always!
Diane & Paul
April 23, 2011
Jodie was a customer of my business Diane Ribbon. She was a very talented, artistic and classy lady. Her creations were just spectacular and she was always a pleasure to deal with. In the craft industry she could of won an Oscar. I along with my crew remember her and offer our deepest sympathys. Diane Rust, Diane Ribbon & Notion
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