Betty J. Rutan

Betty Joan Rutan, 75, of Des Moines, Iowa went Home to be with The Lord at 3:31 p.m. Sunday, November 1, 2015 at Iowa Methodist Medical Center surrounded by family. A Graveside Committal Service and Celebration of Life will be held privately among family, per Betty's wishes.

Betty was born December 21, 1939 in Des Moines, Iowa to Carl and Helen (Moon) Kern and was a lifelong resident of the Des Moines area, retiring from Iowa Lutheran Hospital after 25 years of service as Lead Environmentalist. As a devout Christian having a strong faith in The Lord, her Savior, Betty treasured her family most. Some of her favorite hobbies included genealogy, gardening, birding, and computer literacy in retirement.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband of 58 years, John Sr.; sons, John Jr. (Julie), Ken (Carma), and Charles; daughter Rena, all Des Moines, Iowa natives; her brothers and sisters; and many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to all the many doctors, nurses, and staff members at Iowa Methodist Powell 4 including ICU for the superb care and life support.

To say that she was a tremendous caregiver and role model is just not enough. We feel grateful for having been blessed with such a loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, and wife.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to either the Iowa Genealogical Center or Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden.

Those interested in a Tribute Book to include her life story may leave contact information at 515-868-9300.

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