Melinda "Mindy" Rutledge
December 23, 2011
Melinda Sue (Johnstad) Rutledge, 56 passed away in the arms of our God, surrounded by her family, on December 23, 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 4 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 and Blake Rutledge, and three grandchildren, Carley, Alexis and Addison Rutledge. Mindy is also survived by her 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, 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.
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
david
01/09/2012
God again has received yet another Angel. There is not a lot I can say, But my life has been so fulfilled by knowing such a great person. She has always been there for me.. I will never forget our day's @ the Viking Inn! I lost touch with Mindy 2 X's but always reconnected as if nothing was ever happening. Dear God, She will be missed tremendously! My prayers & sympathy go out to her & your entire family! God truly has received another angel to sit by his right hand. Just as my dad is! Bless you all! Love your friend David,
Karol and Reggie Crumes
01/06/2012
To the family of Mindy. We're so sorry to hear of Mindy's passing. Please know that you're in our thoughts and prayers. Karl and Reggie Crumes, Altoona, IA.
JOHN & JANE dErOSA
01/04/2012
Connie,
So sorry for the news. You and your family have our prayers and sympathy.
Jane and John DeRosa
p.s. Hope you and Kathy are well.
blake and denise cooper
01/01/2012
mindy was a wonderful person who we loved very much. we will always be grateful to her for bring us together with our son shawn. grandma mindy will be missed alot but will always have a piece of our hearts.
Debbie Noreen Diesch
01/01/2012
Mindy will always be remembered as ray of sun shine. Smiles and laughter filled the room she was in. Her special spirit will live on in our memories!!!
Stephanie Austin
12/30/2011
I am so sorry for your loss of your beautiful daughter, sister, mother,aunt, and friend. I knew Mindy from when she was little, but I certainly remember her well, and remember her being a sweet girl and a pretty girl. Seeing her picture tells me she grew into a beautiful woman. I only wish I could have been able to know her more when she grew up. I am still proud to say that "I did know Mindy." My prayers and thoughts are with you all.
Don Eddy
12/30/2011
What I remember of Mindy is her bright smile, both on her face & eyes.
She'd brighten any class she'd walk into. I will miss Mindy, my prayers to
her family.
Nancy D. Olson
12/30/2011
I am so sorry to hear of Mindy's passing. She had a passion for life that burned brightly. I'll always remember the hugs, smiles, laughter, sense of humor, and most of all the love she had for those around her. <3
Dave Jordan
12/30/2011
I'm so sorry for your loss. She was way too young to go. I'll keep all of you in my prayers as you navigate these troubled waters. God Bless and may you find peace in knowing that Mindy is at peace.
Margaret and Paul Meyer
12/27/2011
We were very surprised to hear of Mindy's passing.
She was a great gal to know and took great care of our kids years ago.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you !
Larry and Anita Ewart
12/27/2011
We are so sorry for your loss of Mindy. May you find that your fond memories of her help to ease the pain during this difficult time. We will keep all of you in our hearts, thoughts, and prayers.
Sheryl Bartling
12/26/2011
I am soooo very sorry about Mindy! We worked together at Whylie Eye Care in Altoona,where I still work. She never met a stranger and we always had so much fun together. I remember how she always used to leave her Christmas stuff up until summer! She was a very good woman! She will be missed greatly. I willbe at the visitation when that gets set up. Sincerely Sheryl Bartling