Joan H. Rutherford

Joan H. Rutherford
Resident of Los Gatos
Joan Rutherford, "Aunt Joanie", left us far too soon, on Tuesday, May 14, 2013. She was our beloved aunt, cousin, Godmother, friend, and confidante. She loved geography, "Jeopardy," books, the newspaper, and a good novel. In her younger days, she was an enthusiastic hiker and cross-country skier with her beloved husband, Ralph Rutherford, who preceded her in death in 1992. She was an avid and accomplished contract bridge player, a thoughtful friend and neighbor who loved her apple-cheek Siamese cats Spencer and Lizzy. She adored her family, and never missed a holiday or gathering, (even when she had to drive long distances or fly to be there). Joan also shared many important years and events with a circle of friends she developed as a young adult. Born July 9, 1936, she was the only child of John Patrick and Marion Healy, who raised her in Oakland, California. After graduating from Holy Names High School, she earned a K-3 teaching credential from San Jose State University, where she was a member of the Alpha Kai Omega sorority. Joan taught 37 years as an elementary school teacher, touching countless students' lives with her skills and gifts as an educator. In 1973, Joan married Ralph Rutherford, an engineer, entrepreneur, and patented inventor. They shared 20 years exploring our beautiful Sierra Nevada with their dear friends. Please join us to celebrate Joan's life on Saturday, June 1, at 10:30 AM at the Los Gatos Memorial Park, 2255 Los Gatos Almaden Rd. San Jose. In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Joan's name to the St. Anthony Foundation, 150 Golden Gate Ave. SF, CA 94102.
Holy Angels Funeral &
Cremation Center FD1456
510-537-6600