Marilyn Ann Rutherford

Marilyn Ann Rutherford, 65, entered heaven Sunday, May 22, 2005, from her home in Prescott. Born September 2, 1939, in Adams, Minnisota, she was the oldest child of Lloyd and Veronica (Brewer) Asper. She was a graduate of New Ulm High School in 1957. Soon after completing business school and the airlines academy, Marilyn satisfied her thirst for travel, adventure and support of country by becoming a secretary with the U.S. State Department Embassy in Tripoli, Africa and Ankara, Turkey. A super-patriot, Marilyn was initially motivated by a speech given by the late President, John F. Kennedy, "ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country." Marilyn met her devoted, loving, and caring husband of 38 years, Tom a Marine at the embassy. Throughout Tom's 23 year military career, Marilyn welcomed each new duty assignment in the U.S. and overseas. Her "unselfish, faithful and devoted service" was recognized by the Department of the Navy in 1984. Marilyn's unyielding support of Tom never wavered as he pursued his second career supporting national security activities. Marilyn and Tom moved to Prescott from Walnut, California in 1991. She was drawn to Prescott by its beauty, climate, charm and people. Her passion for quilting reflected her love of life. An award winning quilter, she soon  became a member of the American Quilters Society, the Mountain Top Quilters, Chapter of AQG. She was also a member of the "Red Hat Society" of Prescott. Marilyn was an avid gardener, decorator, enjoyed the fine arts and cooking, and was thrilled when visiting other countries. She was an excellent singer. Marilyn's greatest beauty was within. With a warm pleasant smile she always strived to make others happy. Marilyn is survived by her husband, Tom; her daughter and son-in-law, Lisa Marie and Don Montgomery of Corona, California; and son and daughter-in-law, Tom Jr. and Glady Rutherford of Anaheim Hills, California. She is also survived by her brothers and sisters-in-law, Jerry and June Asper and Bob and Elaine Asper of Omaha, Nebraska; sister-in-law, Sally Asper of Scottsdale, and her beautiful treasured grandchildren, Ashley, Matthew, Monica, Tommy III, and John. Marilyn was preceded in death by her brother, Ron Asper. Marilyn always placed family above herself. A Celebration of Marilyn's life and Funeral Mass will be held at 9:00 a.m., on Saturday, June 4, 2005 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 140 Fleury Street, Prescott. Father Daryl Olds, C.M.F. will preside. The family wishes to extend deep appreciation to so many people; among them, Marilyn's loving family and dear devoted friends, and the ever caring team from Hospice Family Care, Inc., Prescott. A private family service and inurnment will take place at a later date at the Prescott National Cemetery.