Jeanette L. Rutledge (Sargent), 78, of Lindstrom passed away May 10, 2025, with her family by her side.

Jeanette (Jan) was born in Brainerd, MN, November 11, 1946, to Joseph and Phoebe Sargent. She graduated from Washington High School in Brainerd in 1965 and later attended Wadena Technical College. She was self-employed for many years operating her own home cleaning business before retiring. She spent countless hours giving back to her community, volunteering at her church and for the local food shelf.

Jan was passionate about her family, cooking and gardening. Each year she tended her garden which bloomed bigger and more beautiful each year, just as she helped her family grow and thrive, always wanting each family member to be the best they could be. Jan loved to play cards and enjoyed traveling. Most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family and seven grandchildren and great-granddaughter Sophia, creating cherished memories. She was humble to a fault, and never wanted anyone to fuss over her, yet she fussed enough for all of us. Organizing and planning holiday get-togethers with enough food to feed an army, welcoming everyone with a loving heart and open arms.

In 1966, Jan married James Karlson and together had two children Mike and Kari. In 1989, Jan married Glenn Rutledge. Together they hosted many special get-togethers with family and friends at their cabin in Turtle Lake, WI and at their home. Jan always made time to listen to anyone with a troubled heart, offering a supportive smile and common sense advice.

Jan fought a courageous battle against cancer and was recently in remission before succumbing to other health complications. She was loved and will be greatly missed.

Jan is preceded in death by her parents; husband Glenn, siblings, John, Jerry and Jean Vinje, stepdaughter Tracy, step-son-in-law Patrick Stingl, and special niece Vicki Brummer.

Jan is survived by her loving children Mike (Deb) Karlson, Kari (Eric) Ooten; stepdaughter Amy Rutledge Stingl; grandchildren Erika, Timothy, Sonoma, Matthew, Alec, Molly and Hattie; great-granddaughter Sophia, many nieces, nephews, special friends Vicki and George.

A private family gathering will be held at a later date. Cards can be sent to Grandstrand Funeral Home in Lindstrom.

Last Update: May 19, 2025 1:09 pm CDT