Marcia S. Rutherford

Marcia Suzanne Rutherford (Niehaus), born October 1, 1944, in Burlington, Iowa, passed away peacefully on January 15, 2026, at her apartment in Lakeville, Minnesota, with her three children by her side.

Marcia graduated from Burlington High School in 1962 and went on to earn her degree from the University of Iowa. She later raised her family in Ankeny, Iowa, where she became a beloved part of the community through her dedication to education and service. Marcia worked as an elementary school teacher and later served as the business manager at the Ankeny First United Methodist Church for 22 years. Her career of service also included time at Plymouth Church and Hamilton’s Funeral Home.

A woman of deep faith and community spirit, Marcia was a member of P.E.O. and an active bridge player. Her heart for volunteering was evident in everything she did, from serving with Hospice and Vacation Bible School to helping in the elementary school classrooms of her grandchildren.

Marcia was preceded in death by her parents, Emma and Whit Niehaus Sr., and her brother, Whit Niehaus Jr. She is survived by her sister, Sandra (the late John) Trowbridge; her children, Darin (Kristi) Rutherford, Kim Williams, and Austin (Kristin) Rutherford; and eight grandchildren: Brenna, Andrew, Emma, Owen, Tate, Madison, Leah, and Morgan.

To her family, she was simply the "best grandma." She never missed a game or a swim meet, traveled with them to Florida, and loved going with her granddaughters to get their nails done. Whether it was a trip to the park or a morning at Church, she was always there. A proud Iowa Hawkeye fan, she faced life’s challenges—including triumphing over cancer twice—with incredible resilience and a spirit that refused to be a burden to others.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, January 26, 2026, at Ankeny First United Methodist Church (206 SW Walnut St). Family visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by the service at 2:00 p.m., with refreshments and snacks afterward. Burial will take place at Aspen Grove Cemetery in Burlington, Iowa, at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital. Marcia found great joy in the spirit of the 'Hawkeye Wave,' and a gift in her name would continue that beautiful Iowa tradition of supporting children and families in their time of need.

Marcia’s legacy of kindness, grit, and selfless service will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

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