Gerald Peter Rutkowski

Gerald Peter “Jerry” Rutkowski, 85 of Kingsville peacefully passed into the arms of Jesus on October 14, 2021 following a brief illness, at his home surrounded with love from his family.   Born in Baltimore, Maryland on January 8, 1936, Jerry was a Veteran of the US Navy serving on the U.S.S. Antietam.

He was preceded in death by his parents William and Anna Rutkowski, cherished grandson Joshua Hanna, honored son-in-law John Hanna, brothers Lawrence, Richard and William Rutkowski.

Surviving to cherish his memory is his wife of 63 years Susan (Young) Rutkowski, daughter Denise L. Hanna and son-in-law Charles M. Vipperman, Jr. of Street, Maryland, referred to as “Doctor Vipperman” by Jerry, son Gerald W. “Jerry” Rutkowski and daughter in-law Lisa Rutkowski of Bel Air, Maryland.   Grandchildren Justin Hanna of Baltimore, Maryland, Amber Clontz and husband Ron of Bel Air, Maryland, referred to as “BR-Big Ron” by Jerry, Amanda Hanna of Baltimore, Maryland, Katie Zink and husband Jake of Kingsville, Maryland, Kourtney Porsch and husband Kevin of Whitemarsh, Maryland.  Great-grandchildren Forrest, Lenora, referred to as baby “Bella”, by her great pop-pop, Eric, Kara and Keiara.  Brother Conrad Rutkowski and wife Helen of Joppa, Maryland.  Sisters Irene Wirtz of Parkville, Maryland, Marie Mullins of High Lands, Colorado and Dorothy Kraus of Sykesville, Maryland, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jerry was a commercial driver for several years before deciding to start a career as a self-employed farmer.  He and his wife Susan worked side by side operating and owning a successful produce stand with mulch and garden products in Fallston, Maryland for 52 years.  The business began as Upper Falls Farm and started with a simple tractor pulling a wagon evolving over time into a prosperous landmark, business changing the name to Kings Fork Farm.  Jerry proudly served Harford County with honesty and integrity in his business ethics, always striving to please his customers with fresh produce and excellent quality products.  Many friendships were formed over the years with the outstanding customers who supported Kings Fork Farm.

Jerry retired at age 82 and enjoyed rock fishing and crabbing with his boat, playing cards at the local casino, splitting firewood on his farm and working outside his garage on various projects, or attending equipment and tool auctions with “Doctor Vipperman”.  He also enjoyed Nascar Races, football, baseball and horse racing.  In his earlier years, he enjoyed duckpin league bowling.  Jerry was always willing to discuss politics supporting his stance with excitement, showing support for his country.

Visitation for family and friends will be held at the Evans Life Celebration Home-Bel Air, 3 Newport Drive, (Rt. 23 & Rt. 24), Forest Hill on Friday, October 22 from 1-3 PM and 5-7 
PM.  A Celebration of Life Service will start at 7:15 PM where family and friends may speak if they choose to share a memory of Jerry or how he touched their lives.  Due to COVID precautions, the family prefers visitors to please wear a mask.   Graveside services will be held Saturday, October 23 at Mt. Tabor United Methodist Church, 2350 Conowingo Road, Bel Air, Maryland beginning at 1 pm.  Family and friends will meet at the Church.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gerald Peter Rutkowski, please visit our floral store.