William Donald Rutland obituary, Santa Rosa Beach, FL

In memory of

William Donald Rutland

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17 Entries

Dan Bennett

February 11, 2025

For anyone who ever met Don, he became their instant friend and a person who they never forgot. His contagious personality, his larger than life smile, and his kindness impacted everyone. He loved Auburn University and particularly the School of Architecture. He generously gave his time to the schools advisory boards and fund raising efforts. He was a great counsel to me who never said no to any request. More importantly, he was my friend. His loss is everyone´s loss.

Dan Bennett

Carter Anthony

February 10, 2025

No 2 little boys had more fun at a grandparents´ farm (the farm) in the late 40s, early 50´s, than Don and I did riding horses, chasing cows, shooting bb-guns, chopping down trees, running through the woods, hunting rabbits and squirrels, fishing, getting dirty and sweaty and eating plenty of my grandmother´s and grandfather´s cooking. What a grand and great personality! Our condolences to Judy and your family. Miss you, Bud. Carter

Julia Franco

February 9, 2025

It is still hard for my husband Arturo and me now that Don is no longer with us.
We met him and Judi in 2019 when we moved to the neighborhood and we realized soon that he was always ready to help with his nice and friendly smile and he became a very close friend to us.
We will never forget the wonderful memories with him laugh a lot and enjoy time together like family .
God bless you and Judi and you know we will be here for you

Nancy R Delany

February 9, 2025

Don was always so positive and his smile would lighten any room. Rest in peace Don, it was a pleasure knowing you and your legacy will live on. May the Peace of the Lord be with Judy and all your loving family.

Linda Bryan

February 8, 2025

It was my pleasure to meet Don through his lovely wife, Judi. The first thing that impressed me about him was his wonderful smile that lit up the room. He loved to share stories and laughs with his friends, but also was a skillful businessman admired by many. I´m glad I got to meet this wonderful guy and I am sure he will be missed

Nicole Walters

February 8, 2025

Daddy Don had such a warm personality and a big smile for everyone who he met. I´m so lucky to have been his neighbor for 20 years but I also enjoyed seeing him when he would come into pandoras where I worked, for business meetings or to meet friends, he never met a stranger. I hope he rests in peace and I know his memory will be honored by his beautiful family for the years to come

Nina McCaslin-Horn

February 8, 2025

I remember meeting Don for the very first time on the eastern lake park off 30-A at one of the eastern Lake neighborhood association meetings! He and Judi were active in Real Estate and neighbors loved Don! We had invited some of the local politicians in those days to come and speak to us and we were impressed with how many did show up. Don was never shy to ask important questions. I believe Cindi Meadows was our commissioner for fifth district and running again.
This may have been the beginning of fighting for our customary use of the beach! I knew Judi from Real Estate and I knew who Don was as a Developer and Realtor. Don was highly respected by all the industry people! He was always greeting people with a gleeming smile and made you feel good about yourself. Most important, his loving best friend, his beautiful wife, was always there supporting him all the way, no matter what!

Eileen Reuben

February 8, 2025

He had a very good sense of humor and always joked around with me! He will be missed. I knew him a very long time.

Debbie Gericke

February 8, 2025

We had many wonderful memories with Don. Always made me laugh and yet always learned something new because of being with him. He was such a big presence and will be greatly missed. The wonderful thing is he knew the Lord so we will laugh together again one day

Lou & Jerry Heard

February 8, 2025

I´ve known Don 47 years, ever since he and Judi started dating. He was kind, funny, smart, a gentleman, and I believe he truly loved my best friend with every fiber of his being. He loved his kids, and his grandkids. He treated me like one of the family He will truly be missed by all. He was a believer, so we should be encouraged in that we will see him again. Rest easy, Don. We love you.

Karen Harrington Wilson

February 7, 2025

I was lucky to know Don and witness his love for his grand children

Lane

February 6, 2025

Judi and family,
Don was such a lively person and joy to be with as a neighbor, businessman, and a friend. I miss him!
Lane

Sue Haggadone

February 6, 2025

May your loving memories and the good times that you shared with each other , family and friends, give you comfort and strength . You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sue Haggadone

Victoria Hughes

February 6, 2025

Don´s smile and his way to make people laugh, will never be forgotten. My condolences to the whole family.

Bonnie Hall

February 4, 2025

My deepest condolences, Judi.

Legacy Remembers

Posted event

February 3, 2025

Mar

1

Graveside service

1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Historic Gulf Cemetary

S County Highway 393, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

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