Ralph R. Rutherford

83, of Carlinville, passed away Tuesday, October 12, 2010 at Friendship Home in Carlinville.

He was born Saturday, February 26, 1927 in Decatur, IL, the son of Ralph R. Rutherford Sr. and Eva (Bachstein) Rutherford.

He married Betty (Grimmett) in Decatur, IL on May 20, 1972 .

Ralph graduated from Stephen Decatur High School in Decatur, Il and was on the team that won the Basketball State Champanionship in 1945. Ralph played second base for the St. Louis Cardinal Farm League for four years after he served his country in the Navy. Ralph's career started with Illinois Power Company in 1948 in Decatur. Ralph moved to Carlinville in 1956 to serve as the District Manager of Illinois Power Company in Carlinville for 33 years. He had a total of 41 years of service when he retired in 1989.

Ralph was a member of the Federated Church in Carlinville, Carlinville Lions Club, Past President 1968-1969 and served as the 1G District Govener in 1974-1975; Carlinville Elks Lodge #1412 where he served as the Exalted Ruler 1989-1990 and Past District Deputy, State Board of Elk's; Guy Baird American Legion Post #554; Carlinville Moose Home; Carlinville Mt. Nebo Masonic Lodge #76, 50 year member and was a 3rd Mason, Shriner's; active on the Illinois I Fund and was an avid Uof I football and basketball fan and great supporter of the Orange and Blue.

Surviving wife, Betty Rutherford of Carlinville, IL, daughter, Gay Rutherford of Little Rock, AR, daughter, Robin Fones (Danny) of Carlinville, IL, step-son, Phillip Clark of Macomb, IL, two grandchildren, two great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by parents, son, Bruce Rutherford and infant brother, Roy Bruce Rutherford. Funeral Information

Friends and family may call from 4:00 to 7:00 P.M., Thursday, October 14 at Davis-Anderson Funeral Home in Carlinville, IL.

The Elk's Ritual will be at 7:00 P.M. Donations Information

Contributions may be made to the T.A.I.L.S. or St. Jude's Hospital in St. Louis, Mo. Directions

Visitation: Davis Anderson in Carlinville