October 24, 2013 — The CBWC is saddened to learn of the death of (Eleanor) Joan Rutherford on October 16, 2013 who served as a missionary in India and Bolivia with Canadian Baptist Ministries.
Joan was born on May 2, 1924. Although named Eleanor Joan, she preferred to be called Joan. She graduated from the Vancouver General Hospital School of Nursing in 1950. She was appointed as a missionary nurse in 1953 by Canadian Baptist Ministries. She served in India from 1953 to 1968 and in Bolivia from 1974 to 1989. She enjoyed many years of retirement and kept very busy in church activities at Olivet Baptist Church in New Westminster.
Joan was predeceased by her parents Jack and Marjorie, brother Bill and sisters Audrey and Barbara. She is survived by sister Mary Gilmore, brother Jack (Opal) and Bob (Viola), many nieces and nephews and her church family. Joan’s gentle smile, sense of humor and comforting presence will be dearly missed by her family and friends. Please remember Joan’s family and friends in prayer.
A memorial service will be held at Olivet Baptist Church at 613 Queens Ave., New Westminster, BC at 1:30 pm, October 26th. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Olivet Baptist Church.