Obituary of Leonard J. Rutledge

Leonard John Rutledge, age 64, passed away on Sunday, November 7th, 2021. Born in Newark, NJ on December 20, 1956. He is preceded in death by his parents, Frank & Jean Rutledge and his brother, Warren Rutledge. He is survived by his son Leonard J. Rutledge II of Branchburg, NJ; His sister Gail Bogan and her husband Ed Bogan of Long Valley, NJ, 3 nieces, Robin, Karen & Sharon; His Sister-in-law, Patricia Rutledge of Somerset, NJ, niece, Kimberly & nephew, Kevin.

Leonard grew up in Green Brook, NJ, where he played high school football for the Green Brook Cougars. Later, he went on to play football for Trenton State as an offensive lineman and studied business management. The bulk of his career he was a beverage distributor where he made connections and many friends. The last 10 years of his life he enjoyed all that Somerville had to offer. 

A proud Father, who cherished time with his son and never missed one of his games. He was an avid Packer fan, loved the outdoors, BBQs with friends, and playing sports with his son. A man of simple taste that could always hold a conversation and had a laugh that was contagious to all.  From vacations to the shore to skiing trips to the mountains, he always loved time with family & friends. A man of faith who did his best through the journey of life. He will be deeply missed by everyone. 

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the visitation to celebrate Leonard’s Life on Thursday, November 11, 2021 from 4-8pm at the Higgins Home for Funerals in Watchung, NJ. The mass will be held on Friday at 10:30am at St. Luke’s in North Plainfield, NJ.