Rutschke – Melvin Rutschke, beloved husband of Darlene Rutschke of Bassano, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family in Calgary on September 5th, 2005 at the age of 68 years. Born in Bassano on January 27th, 1937 Melvin received his education in Bassano. He started in the trucking industry at an early age and in 1972 started Bassano Transport, retiring in 1997. Melvin and Darlene Fell were married on July 15th, 1961 in High River and resided in Bassano. He loved his family, fishing, curling and camping. Melvin will remembered for his sense of humour, he made everyone laugh, being a wonderful brother, husband, dad, grandpa, uncle and friend. He was predeceased by his parents Fredrick and Katherine Rutschke and 2 brothers Elmer and Radar. Melvin is also survived by his 2 daughters, Wanda Lepp and her husband Irvin of Rosemary and their children Nicole, Ashley (Woody) and Levi; Sandra Gillies and her husband Grant of Picture Butte and their children Dustin and Brady; sister Ella (George) Hein of Drumheller; brother Ed (Marion) Rutschke of Bassano; in-laws Mike and Alice Klaessens of Bassano and numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held on Friday, September 9th from Knox Presbyterian Church, Bassano. Rev. Hector Rose and Rev. Peter Baek officiated. Honorary Pallbearers were Melvin’s grandchildren Nicole, Ashley, Levi, Dustin and Brady. Active Pallbearers were Don Kirwan, Gord Kirwan, Ramon Rabadan, Jose Rabadan, Blaine Rutschke and Jody Helmle. In memory of Melvin, if friends desire, memorial tributes may be made to the Bassano and District Health Foundation, Box 120, Bassano T0J 0B0. Arrangements in care of SMITH FUNERAL HOME. Telephone 362-4636 or (866) 362-4652.
