John Rutherford

John Rutherford, 86, of Ginowan City, Okinawa, passed away peacefully on April 6, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and respected head engineer at American Engineering Corporation—where he dedicated over 50 years of service—John lived a life marked by quiet strength, integrity, and deep love for his family.

Born on June 27, 1938, in Caldwell, Ohio, John grew up working on his family’s farm in Noble County, developing the strong work ethic that would define his life. He graduated from Sarahsville High School and earned his engineering degree from The Ohio State University, remaining a proud Buckeye throughout his life. After beginning his career, John moved to Okinawa, where he built both a successful professional life and a loving home.

John found peace in Okinawa’s coastal waters, where he spent weekends fishing and sailing with friends. But his greatest joy came from his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Teruko; his children: CDR Michael (USNR retired) and wife Tone, Dennis and wife Yumiko, Jason and wife Asami, and Vivian; grandchildren Cecilia and husband Matthew, SGT Andrew (USMC), Ryan, Chase, Christy, and Nora; great-grandchildren Ava and Jacob; brothers Branson and wife Melinda and Richard and wife Caroline; and countless friends who will forever cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Sally Rutherford, and brother Larry.

A memorial service will be held at Inanse Funeral Home Services at Urasoe, on April 11, 2025. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the VFW Post 4721Scholarship Fund of Caldwell, Ohio, supporting education for local students—a meaningful way to honor John’s Ohio roots and belief in the power of education.

“His children arise and call him blessed.”
—Proverbs 31:28