MICHAEL L. RUTHERFORD

Michael L. Rutherford, age 59, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on Saturday, May 23, 2020.

A private family funeral service will be held at Cullen Funeral Home.

Michael was born in Kansas City, Missouri on February 3, 1961. He was the 4th and youngest son of "Dee" Everett Rutherford, Sr. and Norma (Shorthose) Rutherford. As a teenager, Michael spent summers working and learning from his father how to do concrete and construction work and over the years created for himself a successful career in concrete flatwork. Michael could do it all when it came to construction.  He took pride in his work and enjoyed making people happy.  When he was not working, he was helping family and friends utilizing his talents.  Sometimes he would overpromise, but to his own fault, he cared so much for others that he couldn't help himself.  "No" was not in his vocabulary.   Michael's favorite church activity was being a greeter.  He loved meeting and talking to people.   He had a special gift of making everyone feel loved and welcomed.  Michael never knew a stranger.  He was kind to everyone! He was very passionate about the KC Chiefs and music.  Among his favorites were Alabama, Journey, Kenny Chesney and many more.  Michael loved his family, friends and pets deeply.  He will be greatly missed.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Dee and Norma Rutherford; two brothers, George and James Rutherford; and sister, Linda Shoemaker.

He is survived by his loving wife, Kim Ballard; two daughters Melissa Anne Beard and Brandie Ingermanson; brother "Sonny" Everett Rutherford Jr.; seven sisters, Deanna Morris, Reba Mitzel, Katherine Robinett, Nita Hanna, Ginger Wilson (Bob), Lisa Robbins (Jimmy), and Gladys Brown (Scott); seven grandchildren Andrew Rutherford, Josh Beard, Kayla Beard, Ashley Ingermanson, Megan Ingermanson, Isaac Clark, and Christopher Clark; and one great granddaughter, Emery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Evangel Church, 1414 E. 103rdStreet, Kansas City, Missouri 64131 or Wayside Waifs, 3901 Martha Truman Rd., Kansas City, Missouri, 64137.

Arrangements: Cullen Funeral Home, Raymore, Missouri 816.322.5278