Murray “Rick” F. Rutledge Jr., 71 of Warsaw passed away at 8:37 p.m. Friday July 3, 2015, at Kosciusko Community Hospital, Warsaw.

He was born on April 9, 1944, to Murray F. Sr. and Vaudean (Sawyer) Rutledge in Carbon Hill, AL. He was united in marriage to Margaret “Peg” Biltz on January 21, 2003 in Key West, FL., who survives.

Rick was a lifetime resident of Kosciusko County. He was a 1962 graduate of Warsaw High School. He served in the US Army, serving in Germany then returning back to the US with an honorable discharge in 1965.  Back in the 1960’s he worked for Warsaw Police Department as a patrolman for 3 years. He retired from Sprint as Linemen after 3o years.

Rick was a devoted Christian. He enjoyed classic cars, a competition judge in horse shows, he was also an excellent horse rider and he loved all animals. He was known as the gentle giant.

He is survived by his daughter: Heather Rutledge, Warsaw; sisters: Joy Ann Conley, Warsaw; Sherry White, Tenn.; a brother: Kenneth (Brenda) Rutledge, N.D.; many nieces and nephews; three step-grandchildren: Alex James Maxwell, Warsaw; Kaleb Matthew Maxwell; and Tristin Kenneth Maxwell, Fort Wayne; and his beloved dog, Molly.

He is preceded in death by his parents, two sisters: Wanda Dickey; and Helen Hope Jones; and a brother: Kerry Leon Rutledge.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday July 14, at American Legion Circle, Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw. There will be military honor by the American Legion Post 49, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1126 both of Warsaw and the Military Funeral Honor Guard. Pastor Bob Brown will officiate. No calling is planned.

The family is requesting in lieu of flowers that the contribution be made to the Animal Welfare League of Kosciusko County.

To send condolence or sign a guestbook go to www.mchattonsadlerfuneralchapels.com