John (Jonas) Joseph Rutkauskas

John passed away in his 72nd year, surrounded by family at Victoria Hospital, London, ON.

Proud father of Shawn Rutkauskas (Kellie) and Tara Beacom (Brandon), and remembered by Debra Rutkauskas.

Beloved Life Partner of Barbara Dennis.

Survived by grandchildren, Ewan and Aidan Rutkauskas and Ronan and Auron Beacom.  Also survived by Barb’s children, Darcie Lee (Geoff), Aaron Fraser (Aoife), Blair Fraser, and grandchildren Jared and Madeline Lee, Eoghan Sloan and Maeve Fraser.

John was born in Toronto to parents Leo Rutkauskas (2018) and Brone Rutkauskas (1991).  He is survived by siblings Irene Penthor (Karl), Val Salkauskas (late Sal) and Joanne Nowell (Robert).  Also survived by several nieces and nephews.

John was raised on a tobacco farm south of Tillsonburg.  He loved spending his summers barefoot, working hard and grounding him for life.

John joined the Toronto Police Force in 1973, coming to Ingersoll Police Service in 1982 and amalgamating with Oxford County OPP in 2003.   John enjoyed his work – he was a compassionate, caring officer for almost 40 years and his co-workers became life-long friends.

John enjoyed all kinds of sports, music and nature.  He was thrilled to get at “hole-in-one” at Sally Creek.  John and Barb enjoyed their winters in Florida and travelled many times.  John enjoyed his valued friendships with his boyhood friends.  He also enjoyed the grandchildrens’ sports and activities.

The family would like to thank the Palliative Care Outreach Team for their wonderful care.

A private family graveside service will be held at St. John’s Lithuanian Cemetery in Mississauga.  A Celebration of Life for John will take place at a later date.

John's family wishes to express their thanks and gratitude for the many charitable donations and purchases of trees in his memory.