Obituary of Bobby Marvin Rutledge

Born in Tacoma, WA 1941, Bob passed away Nov. 7, 2007 at age 66. He was preceded in death by his mother in 2000, his 26 yr. partner Mary Hayes in 2002, and his father in 2003. His parents, Marvin and Frances Rutledge, moved the family from Tacoma to Lakewood in 1946. Bob graduated from Clover Park High School in 1960 and married Kay Elliot in 1964. They had four children and moved to Devine, TX. The marriage failed and Bob returned to Washington. He worked as a sheetrock installer for awhile in the Tacoma area and Anchorage, AK where he met Mary. He had gone to Alaska with his cousin Don, but Don was killed there and Bob returned to Tacoma. After Don's funeral, Bob returned to Alaska for Mary. His nephew Randy accompanied him. It was a tough, rainy trip - every time turned on his windshield wipers, the blades would fly-off! Sheetrocking was hard on Bob's back, so he began to learn carpentry after his return from Alaska. In 1976, his House My People Construction Supervisor wrote: "It would be an understatement to say that Bob did his job well. I would rather say he did his job extremely well and in most cases, did far more than was required. He is a hard working man, is honest, and has a quieting and pleasant personality. Bob enjoyed traveling, visiting friends and family, his pets, playing pinochle, reading, collecting marbles, working in his shop on that special project, and long walks. His last employer, St. Joseph Hospital, placed him on medical leave of absence in 2002. Alzheimer's was affecting his job performance. He had been a Roy, WA area resident for 25 yrs. before moving back to Tacoma when his independent living abilities began to diminish. Bob is survived by his children: James Taylor, Robert Taylor, Cherie Taylor, and Patrick Taylor; four grandchildren; brother Larry (Laura) Rutledge; two Aunts; cousins, nephews, and nieces; and many friends. The family extends a special thank you to the caring staff of Georgian House. Please make a donation, in memory of Bob, to the Alzheimer's Association. There will be no services, per Bob's request. Arrangements by Edwards Memorial Center 253-566-1008