Melinda Rutledge Obituary

Melinda Sue (Johnstad) Rutledge

Des Moines

Melinda Sue (Johnstad) Rutledge, 56, passed away in the arms of our God, surrounded by her family, on December 23, 2011 at the Taylor Hospice House in Des Moines. At first, the angels stood behind her bed guarding her every breath, as her breath began to fade, the angels hovered above her, gently lifting her spirit into the heavenly hands of God.

Mindy was born September 2, 1955 to Conrad and Violet Johnstad in Milwaukee, WI. She attended Strum Elementary and Chippewa Falls High School and later received her marketing degree from Eau Claire Technical Institute. Mindy excelled in every aspect of her work career as a saleswoman.

She was formerly married to Steven C. Rutledge of Des Moines and together they raised four sons, Shannon, Nicholas, Matthew and Blake Rutledge.

From a very young age, Mindy loved the outdoors and caring for animals. Mindy was fortunate to live her dream on a small farm in Wisconsin with her beloved partner, Bill Pecca and her dog, Tilly. She especially enjoyed visiting the Amish Community bringing eggs and meat from the farm. Mindy loved being around people, welcoming them into her home anytime. Mindy never met a stranger. The warmth she exuded made all feel at home with her. Whether a person knew Mindy five minutes or five years, all who knew her were defenselessly in love with her. Known to young children as "Mima", she loved reciting nursery rhymes and singing to children.

Mindy had a zest for life, and lived it with all she had. She will always be remembered for her beautiful smile which would light up a room. Her love for her children, grandchildren, and family was evident in the way she cared about them. A favorite saying for Mindy was "it's all about the love."

Survivors include her father, Conrad (Kathleen) Johnstad; her children, Shannon (Laurie) Rutledge, Nicholas (Twila) Rutledge, Matthew Rutledge, and Blake Rutledge; three grandchildren, Carley, Alexis, and Addison Rutledge; siblings, Jodelle Harris, Sheri (Jack) Bassford, Steven Johnstad, Dusty (Bill) Millard, Jason (Kylie) Johnstad, and David Dermer along with her many nieces and nephews. Mindy was preceded in death by her mother, Violet A Johnstad and brother, Terry Shock.

Visitation with the family and friends will be Thursday, January 19, 2012 from 5 to 6 p.m. followed by a Memorial Service at 6 p.m. at Hamiltons Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street in Des Moines.

Memorial contributions may be directed toward the Taylor Hospice House.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by the Des Moines Register from Jan. 4 to Jan. 8, 2012.

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January 19, 2012

Do not know what to say. I am very sad.
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