KENNETH RUTHERFORD

Kenneth Doyle Rutherford, 93, of Canton, Missouri, passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 9, 2026, at La Belle Manor Care Center in La Belle, Missouri.
Born on December 28, 1932, in the Burlington, Iowa area, Kenneth was the son of Francis and Margaret (McKassen) Rutherford. He lived a life rooted in faith, family, hard work, and service to his country and community.
On March 14, 1952, Kenneth married Dolly Ann Rutherford, beginning a partnership that would span nearly 70 years. To those who knew them, Kenneth and Dolly were rarely thought of apart. Together they built a home, raised a family, farmed the land they loved, and created a lifetime of memories that continue through the generations that follow them.
One of Dolly’s favorite memories was from church. During the singing of “Let There Be Peace on Earth,” Kenneth would quietly reach over and hold her hand. It was a simple gesture, but one that reflected the enduring love and companionship they shared throughout their marriage. Even after nearly seven decades together, they remained side by side in the hearts and minds of all who knew them.
Kenneth proudly served his country during the Korean War as a Staff Sergeant. Following his military service, he returned home and dedicated himself to farming. Alongside Dolly, he owned and operated their farm near Benjamin, Missouri, where family gatherings, hard work, and treasured memories became part of the family’s story.
Kenneth was known as a grouchy old farmer by those who loved him best. A smile from him could sometimes be hard to earn, but it appeared often around his grandchildren, whom he loved and cherished dearly. Beneath his gruff exterior was a man who found great joy in his family and took pride in watching them grow.
An accomplished woodworker, Kenneth spent countless hours in his woodshop creating projects and working with his hands. For many family members, the workshop was a special place filled with the smell of freshly cut wood, piles of shavings on the floor, and afternoons spent helping him, learning from him, or simply enjoying his company.
Kenneth also enjoyed visiting with friends and family, sharing stories, and staying connected to his community. He served on the Canton School Board and was a proud member of the American Legion.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dolly Ann Rutherford, and by his parents, Francis and Margaret (McKassen) Rutherford.
He is survived by their three sons: Randy, Michael (Julie), David; Grandchildren: Leann (Scott) Harrison, Dustin Rutherford, Dallas Rutherford, Deanna Roberts; Great-Grandchildren: Alaina Thompson (Skylar), Wyatt, Delaney, Danielle and Demi Roberts; Great-Great-Grandchildren: Harrison, Theodore, and Oliver Thompson and his sister, Marcia Moreland.  Zelda, Carol, Jerry, Dwayne, and two infant siblings.
Kenneth’s life was one of dedication—to his family, his farm, his country, and the community he called home. Though he has now joined Dolly in eternal rest, the memories they created together and the legacy they built will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved them. “Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me.”
Graveside services for both Kenny and Dolly will be held Saturday, July 11, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Forest Grove Cemetery in Canton, Missouri with Rev. Paul Smith officiating. Military honors will be provided by Otto Bruner Post 170.
Memorials may be made to St. Louis Children’s Hospital.
Honorary Pallbearers: Dustin Rutherford, Dallas Rutherford, Wyatt Roberts, Alaina Thompson, Delaney Roberts and Larry Mueller.
Arnold’s Funeral Home in Canton in charge of arrangements.