Obituary of Avonell Rutherford

Avonell (Hawk) Rutherford age 97 of the Iowa City area died Monday May 25, 2026, at the Lone Tree Care Center in Lone Tree.

Avonell Hawk was born November 22, 1928, in Havelock, Iowa the daughter of George and Florence (Hauswirth) Hawk. She attended schools in Havelock, following high school she attended Methodist Hospital Nursing Program in Sioux City. Which lead her onto a successful path as a registered nurse for over 43 years. After moving to the Iowa City area, she worked for the VA Medical Center and Mercy Hospital leading up to her retirement in 1998. 

Avonell was raised on a farm near Havelock, which instilled so many great qualities and patience which she was able to carry onto her career and volunteering. Avonell spent her time volunteering for many different organizations that included, The Crisis Center, Low Vision Group where she was a co-chairman, Red Cross, Simulated Patient for the University of Iowa Medical School, and she also enjoyed genealogy research. 

Avonell’s family includes her children, Cathy Reese (Robert) and Lester Rutherford; two grandchildren, Carla Bauer (Garry) and Robert Reese (Stephanie); four great grandchildren, Zachary, Sharai, Dalton, and Sina; and seven great great grandchildren, Jaidan, Oliver, Declan, Oscar, Cillian, Lennon and Ellie.

She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Verla Walters, Melvin Hawk, and Eldon Hawk.

No public services are planned, burial will take place at the Washington Cemetery in Havelock, Iowa.  To share a thought, memory or condolence with her family please visit Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service website @ www.gayandciha.com.