Dannie Thomas Rutledge

September 23, 1942 - December 16, 2011

Graveside Services for Dannie Rutledge age, 69 of Chadron, Ne, will be 3:00 p.m., Saturday, July 14, 2012 at Clearwater Cemetery. Dannie Thomas Rutledge was born September 23, 1942 in Norfolk, Nebraska to Lawrence and Mildred(Filsinger)Rutledge. His early years were spent at home in Clearwater, Ne. He later lived in Beatrice, Norfolk, & Broken Bow, Nebraska. In 2001 he moved to Hot Springs, SD to be near family. In 2004 he moved to Crestview Care Center in Chadron, Nebraska. He lived there until his death on December 16, 2011. Dan was given many challenges in life, physically and mentally. He struggled, but was usually happy. He loved his family, had friends everywhere he went, and rarely forgot a face or name. He loved to tease, especially his mom and sister. He loved the New York Yankees, Nebraska Cornhuskers, Polka Music, & firemen, fire trucks, anything to do with firefighting. He was quick to voice his opinion. Dan loved to reminisce especially about funny events that had happened in his life. He called Bonnie every night just to say goodnight, and I love you. He was very strong, and always tried to do what was right. He attended many activities at Crestview, and especially enjoyed the music ones. He always sang "You Are My Sunshine" with Bonnie. He was baptized as an infant in Clearwater, Nebraska, and confirmed into the Lutheran faith at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Chadron, Nebraska in 1978. A memorial service was held at Crestview Care center on Dec. 20, 2011 with Pastor Peter Bertram officiate, and Kate Blaylock pianist for the singing of Dan's favorite hymns, "Jesus Loves Me" and other music. Truly blessed for sharing Dan's life are those who preceded him in death, his grandparents, parents, brothers, Dick and Jack, and Sister-in-law, Neva Rutledge, Uncles, Aunts, Cousins, and special friends. Survivors are his sister, Bonnie (Larry) Blunt, nephews, nieces, great nephews and great great nieces and nephews. In honor of his love for fire trucks, the family has requested that his cremains be delivered to the Clearwater Cemetery in a Clearwater Volunteer Fire Department vehicle. There will be a balloon launch at the cemetery. Also because of his love for the Nebraska Cornhuskers, anyone who wants to wear any Husker gear, please do. A memorial has been established for the Clearwater Fire Department, where Dan has been a "Member" for many years.