Frederick Stuart Rutledge
September 11, 1956 - March 26, 2022
Fred passed away on March 26 in Orinda with his wife Jane by his side. Beloved husband, father and brother, Fred was a historian, educator, bagpiper, military veteran, and humanitarian.
Born in Piedmont, Fred was a fourth generation native Californian. After receiving a B.A. in History from U.C. Berkeley, and a Master of Arts in Education Administration from Saint Mary's College, he enrolled in history classes at Oxford University.
During his long and successful career in higher education he was appointed Vice Principal for the Piedmont Adult School and the Pleasanton Unified School District's Adult and Career Education program before being named Principal of Adult and Correctional Education for the Tri-Valley Regional Occupational Center.
In his free time, he was a popular guest lecturer on the Civil War and World War I for Bay Area schools, community organizations and museums. For these appearances Fred often wore authentic vintage attire and especially enjoyed impersonating President Theodore Roosevelt. In retirement he was hired by Cal Discoveries Travel to give history talks to audiences around the world.
His 28 years of distinguished service in the U.S. Army Reserve included a deployment with the UN Humanitarian Assistance Mission in Haiti. After retiring as a Lt. Colonel, he promptly joined the California State Guard where he worked for the California Center for Military History and achieved the rank of Colonel. His other volunteer duties included counseling soldiers on balancing military service with civilian life and playing a lead role in organizing the annual Wheelchair Regatta and Remembrance Day Service.
Fred's many civic activities included serving as president for: Encinal Yacht Club, Royal Canadian Legion Post 25, Pleasanton-Blairgowrie-Fergus Sister Cities Organization, St. Andrews Society of San Francisco, the Order of St. John, and Commodore of the Pacific Inter-Club Yacht Association. Colleagues often credited his special sense of humor for bringing levity to board meetings.
Fred is survived by his wife, Jane, two daughters Jean (Jack) Stein, Kirsten (Josh) Gooley, and two brothers, Bill and Steve.
Donations in his memory can be made to the Marines Memorial Association, marinesmemorial.org/Rutledge and/or the Order of St. John, SaintJohn.org,honor, Donate, Fred Rutledge.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Fred was a nice, kind person. We got to know each other in Bagpipe band. We used to go after bagpipe class to Fentons to enjoy the ice cream. His life ended too short.
judy weil
Friend
November 25, 2022
I just learned of Fred's passing and can not believe it. He was one of my favorite people in the world and I regret never having a chance to say goodbye. Our sincerest condolences go out to you, Jane, and the family. Fred meant more to his friends than I could ever begin to say. He will be deeply missed.
John and Dorothy McCorkindale
June 11, 2022
To Fred´s family;
A fellow piper, veteran, State Guard Colonel, and Queen´s Club member, Fred left far too soon. I would have been at his memorial had I known. A wonderful, knowledgeable, humorous, generous, and all-around great friend. It was truly an honor to know Fred and to serve alongside him. I´ll miss you, Fred. Save me a seat.
Bill Tubbs
Friend
June 6, 2022
Caley Guida
June 4, 2022
Caley Guida
June 4, 2022
I feel sad to hear of Fred's passing. He was a vibrant soul who's passing has left the world a little dimmer.
Caley Guida
June 4, 2022
So sorry to hear about your loss, Jane. I remember the stories of Fred and his passion for military history and costume. When we finally got to meet him at the Scottish games one year, he was such a delight, and so kind to our kids, even lending them kilts, which made them feel like real soldiers! Kieran even got to run the kilted mile in a real kilt!
Cathy Lewis (11Long)
May 28, 2022
Dear Jane and Family,
So sad to hear about Fred´s passing. He was a wonderful guy to be around while we were attending Piedmont High School. Always laughing when in his orbit. Kind, a good storyteller, and could play the bagpipes like nobody´s business. A class act all around.
Bless you all.
Robert Jeffrey Atkinson
May 19, 2022
Dear Jane and family,
Please accept our late but heartfelt condolences. We really enjoyed meeting Fred, and will alway remember his bag piping at Andy and Carrie´s wedding. You have been blessed with a very special man in your lives. May his memory bless you.
Leslie and Rick Golson
Family
May 16, 2022
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