James Rutherford

James M. Rutherford of Fargo, ND, finished the race September 9, 2011 at the age of 89. He passed peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, after a year-long battle with cancer. Jim was born on September 6, 1922, in Grafton, ND to Johannah and John Rutherford, the tenth of eleven children. He was raised on the family farm in Nash, ND. He married Gladys Gilleshammer of Grafton, ND on November 9, 1946. They farmed in the Grafton area until 1950, when they bought a farm and moved east of Hillsboro, ND. Besides being known as an outstanding farmer, Jim was also appreciated for his integrity, keen wit, 'crooked smile' and tender heart. His work ethic, honesty and faith leave a legacy to be remembered. Jim liked to sing, play the organ, and golf, but family and friends were his joy. Jim is survived by his five children; Gary (JoAnn) Rutherford, Glendale, AZ; Diane (Jim) Weaver, Billings, MT; Pamela (Jim) Wiedmann, Glendale, AZ; Peggy Rutherford, Minneapolis, MN; and Charles (Susan) Rutherford, Minneapolis, MN; 14 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; and his two sisters, Gladys Brosseau, Grand Forks, ND and Clarice Astrup, Fargo, ND. He was preceded in death by his wife Gladys, four brothers and four sisters. In lieu of flowers, memorials will be distributed by the family. Funeral Service: Friday, September 16, 2011, at 2:00 at Liberty Lutheran Brethren Church, 1702 32nd Avenue South, Fargo. Visitation: Thursday, September 15, 2011 from 6:00-8:00PM with a Tribute Service at 7:00 at Hanson-Runsvold Funeral Home, 215 South, Fargo. Personal reflections are welcome. Interment: Following funeral reception at Riverside Cemetery, Fargo.