Jeanne Dorothy Rutka

Jeanne Dorothy Barbo-Rutka, age 95 of Duluth, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2024. She was born on April 14, 1928 to parents, Tony & Dorothy (Cohan) Unzen. Jeanne was born and raised in Duluth, MN. She married Willard Barbo in 1948 and together they raised 5 children. Jeanne expressed her love by cooking for others. The holidays were particularly special. She opened her door to anyone that didn’t have a place to go. Jeanne loved to travel. She took various trips around the United States and Europe. After the passing of her first husband, Bill, Jeanne would get married again. She wed Robert Rutka in 1988. She was blessed to grow her family with the addition of Bob’s children. Jeanne and Bob spent their time together, living in Duluth and Wintering in Arizona.

Jeanne is preceded in death by her parents, husbands, and son, Ken Barbo. She is survived by her children, Linda Parrott (George Utt), Ed Barkos-Barbo, Jim (Marilyn) Barbo, and Diane (Randy) Houdek; daughter-in-law, Dianne Barkos; stepchildren, Dan (Tammy), Tom, and Julie; 10 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren; siblings, Robert (Adel) Unzen & Joyce (Don) Allan; numerous extended family members and friends.

The family would like to thank the caring staff of Inter-Faith, Carlton Place, and Gentiva Hospice.

A Memorial Service will be on Saturday, April 20, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. with a visitation starting at 1:00 p.m. in Dougherty Funeral Home 600 E Second St., Duluth, MN 55805.