Ronald Dean Rutherford

June 30, 1933 – December 18, 2023

Ron Rutherford, 90, of Pollock Pines, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2023, in Sacramento, CA.

Ron was born in Ventura, California, to Mildred Finks Rutherford and Paul Perry Rutherford. He had an older sister, Shirley, with whom he was very close his entire life. Ron and Shirley grew up in a ranch house in Maxwell, CA, with their father and grandparents, James and Jean Finks.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Eunice Spirlock Rutherford, sister Shirley Jean Walker, and niece Michelle Smith. He leaves behind stepson, Joseph Sodaro, granddaughter, Susan Sodaro-Carter, great-grandson, Aidan Carter, niece, Julie Kavanaugh, nephews, Glenn Berglund and Craig Berglund, and many great nieces, great nephews, and cousins, as well as countless friends.

Ron graduated from Maxwell High School and enjoyed attending class reunions and rodeos. He was a veteran of the United States Army, serving much of his term in Alaska. Ron also attended UC Davis and played on the college baseball team.

Ron moved to Concord where he met his wife-to-be, Eunice. Ron and Eunice were married in 1966. They worked together at, and eventually owned, the Paddock Bowl in Pacheco, California. They happily lived in Martinez for many years and eventually built and moved to a beautiful mountain home in Pollock Pines, CA. After Eunice’s passing in 2002, Ron continued to operate the bowl, owning the business for close to 50 years. The bowling alley became a center for the community that continues today.

Ron was a true outdoorsman. He loved to go hunting, fishing, and camping. He always had a trusted hunting dog companion. An avid sports fan, Ron enjoyed watching games on TV and always had a wonderful time golfing and bowling with friends. Ron bowled several 300 games and proudly wore his perfect game watch.

Ron’s family and friends were always the most important part of his life. He was a generous person by nature and always lent a helping hand to those who needed it.

A service for Ron is scheduled for Friday, January 5, 2024, 11 a.m. at Chapel of the Pines, 2855 Cold Springs Road, Placerville, CA. Following the service, a graveside ceremony will be held at Westwood Hills Memorial Park, 2720 Cold Springs Rd., Placerville, CA 95667.

In lieu of flowers, we encourage you to donate to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or your charity of choice.

A celebration of life event will be scheduled at a later date.