Robert Eugene "Bob" Rutledge, 74, died Sunday, March 4, 2007 at his home near Dover, Kansas. He was born on the family farm on June 1, 1932, where he lived all of his life, the son of Vey Alberta Bassett and Thomas Austin "T A" Rutledge.

Bob grew up in the Dover community and graduated from Dover High School and Kansas State University. He was a life member of the KSU Alumni Association and an avid Wildcat Fan.

He was in the ROTC at Kansas State and served two years in the United States Army.

On August 8, 1953, he married June Taylor at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Lillis, KS.

Bob worked for Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company in Topeka for 38 years where he was highly respected for his leadership, loyalty and friendship. Bob lived for his family, friends, and community.

He was a loving husband, father and grandfather who made his children and grandchildren's school activities and sporting events a major part of his life. During the past 20 years, his farm became a destination for children and grandchildren from across the country. He even had a horse and buggy that he entered in local parades and outfitted for holiday rides for the grandkids. His farm promised days of games, stories, fun, humor and memories that will last with his grandchildren forever.

Bob was a member of Christ the King Catholic Church in Topeka, the Wabaunsee Cattleman's Association, the Wabaunsee County Farm Bureau, and was a past president and member of the Shawnee County Fair Board.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vey Alberta Bassett and Thomas Austin "T A" Rutledge; and a sister, Velda Fally.

Bob is survived by his wife, June (Taylor); his children, Cindy (Kevin), Pat (Cindy), Tom (Brenda), Jane (Jim) and Lynn (Ford); a sister, Arlene Wright of Banning, CA; and nine grandchildren: Sami, Jake, Cole, Jess, Casey, Austin, Winnie, Coupe and Emma.