Obituary of Maj. John J. Rutscher (Ret.)

John passed away peacefully March 1, 2018 surrounded by loving family.  Funeral services will be 12:00 noon at First United Methodist Church of Bossier City on March 7, 2018.  Family will receive friends starting at 11:00 AM until service time.  Officiating will be Rev. Karl Klaus and Rev. David Dietzel.  Interment will follow in Northwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery in Keithville, LA.  

John was born and raised in New Jersey.  Following college, he decided to join the military.  He proudly served 23 years in the United States Air Force and obtained 6,000 hours of flying time. Among his military decorations are the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal with 7 OLC’s, the Combat Readiness Medal with 1 OLC, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry.   He retired from the USAF in 1975 and worked as a professional Scouter with Norwela Council for five years.  He then retired from the Biomedical Engineering Dept. of LSU Med Center. During his retirement, John enjoyed volunteering at Shriners Hospital and Northwest Louisiana Veterans Home. 

John is survived by his wife of 64 years, Shirley; daughter, Sally Summey; son, Steven and wife, Dana; three grandchildren, Jennifer Brewer, Michelle Riner, and Cody Rutscher;  two great-grandchildren, Madison and Dalton; sister, Doris Conley; and eight nieces and nephews. 

In lieu of flowers, the family suggest a donation in John's honor to the Souper Saturday program at First United Methodist Church of Bossier City or the charity of your choice.  The family would like to express their appreciation and love to the staff of The Glen, Dr. Robert C. Hernandez, and 6th floor personnel of WK Pierremont.