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Dementia is cruel and heartbreaking. Pearl became a fading picture of the strong, independent woman who she use to be. Her last hours were as peaceful as we could have hoped and while we’re saddened by her passing, it’s a huge relief that she’s no longer struggling with this dehumanizing illness. Finally free she is now enjoying the wonders of heaven re-united with friends and loved ones who passed away before her.


Pearl was born to Emil and Annie Johnson in Rocky Mountain House, AB. Along with seven brothers and two sisters they lived and helped work on the family farm. But life had many hardships and as a result Pearl still so very young, was separated from her home, schooling and family to begin work for Carl and Mary Oppel. The Oppel family grew to love Pearl dearly and they became a second family to her remaining close throughout all these years. In 1947 Pearl married her soulmate Dudley Walter Rutter. Pearl lived her entire life for and what she loved best on earth, her husband and their three children Esther, Ruth and David. She was her husband’s life as fully as he was hers. They were blessed with 59 years of marriage until his passing. Her constant good example always taught us right from wrong. Never selfish, always loving and kind. These are the wonderful memories mom you leave behind.


Pearl is survived by one sister Mae Sobkowicz of Victoria and one brother Nester (Mae) of Cranbrook. Her three children Esther (Don) Petty of Canmore, AB., David Rutter of Victoria and Ruth Persson of Cranbrook. She has six grandchildren Philip Petty, Darren (Stephanie) Petty, Bradley (Genevieve) Petty, Susanne (Gary) Elliott, Lisa (Daryl) Tanner, Aimee (Lawrence) Sarmenta. She was then blessed with 13 precious great grandchildren, Shelby and Morgan Price; Emilee and Hanna Elliott; Nathan, Tyson and Owen Tanner; Jager, Tripp, Nixee and Kayia Sarmenta; Megan and Ryan Petty.


A family graveside service will be held at Westlawn Cemetery on Monday, October 27, 2014.


Without the kindness, caring and patience from the staff at Joseph Creek Care Home along with the compassionate care and support received by Dr. Shopay and his assistant Hailey, I don’t know how mom could have coped throughout this difficult journey. We are forever grateful.



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