From Joey:

John Rutherford Kline of Helena Mt. passed away at the age of 94, on July 22, 2026, after an extended decline brought on by the rigors of extreme old age. John was born in 1932 to Joseph Kline and Daisy Mae Rutherford and was the 3rd of 6 siblings and the last survivor of them all.

After college at St Thomas, he served as a marine lieutenant in the Korean War and went on to Michigan law school. Landing in Montana as an insurance adjuster, he married Judith Ann Crisafulli of Glendive and moved to Great Falls, where his first son Joseph was born. The family moved to Helena where John practiced law and bought a new house, and were soon joined by a second son, John Patrick.

John maintained a law practice until his retirement in 1999.

He was an avid racquetball player and member of the Montana Club, as well an unrepentant punster who tormented his spouse relentlessly with groaners and dad jokes. He instilled the same annoying humor into both his sons who make eyes roll to this very day.

John was frequently listed among America’s top lawyers for tax and probate. He is survived by his wife Judy and both sons, Joey (Dennis) of Helena and John Patrick (Irina) of Alabama.

From John:

John Rutherford Kline, 94, of Helena, Montana, died on July 22, 2026. Born on February 1, 1932, in Fargo, North Dakota, to Joseph and Daisy Mae (Rutherford) Kline, he lived a life distinguished by faithful service, intellectual curiosity, quiet integrity, and, above all, unwavering devotion to his family.

John proudly served his country as a member of the United States Marine Corps before earning his law degree from The University of Michigan and establishing a respected legal practice in Helena. For decades, he served his clients and community with intelligence, integrity, and sound judgment before retiring from the practice of law in 1999. While he took pride in both his military service and his legal career, his greatest purpose and deepest satisfaction were found in being a devoted husband, father, and friend.

For nearly sixty-five years, John shared a remarkable marriage with his beloved wife, Judith. Together they built a life rooted in loyalty, mutual respect, quiet sacrifice, and enduring love. His devotion was expressed in the countless everyday decisions that placed his family’s well-being above his own. Those who knew him understood that his greatest joy came from caring for the people he loved.

John believed that fatherhood was measured by being present and providing financially. He gave generously of his time, encouragement, wisdom, and resources, supporting both of his sons as they pursued their individual paths in life. He celebrated their successes, stood beside them through life’s challenges, and quietly invested himself in helping them build meaningful lives of their own.

Gifted with an exceptional intellect, John remained a lifelong student. He delighted in exploring philosophy, history, psychology, science, and theology, believing that sincere questions should never be feared and that truth was worthy of thoughtful pursuit. His curiosity continued throughout his life, and he encouraged others to think deeply, learn continually, and approach life with humility and dignity.

John also possessed a wonderfully dry sense of humor. He delighted in puns, clever wordplay, and classic “dad jokes,” finding particular satisfaction in provoking both laughter and good-natured groans. His quick wit and playful love of language became a lasting gift to his sons, who grew up in a home where humor was shared generously and laughter was never in short supply.

John found his greatest joy in the simple moments of family life—sharing thoughtful conversations, offering encouragement, lending a helping hand, and celebrating the accomplishments of those he loved. His quiet strength, generosity, and steadfast character left an enduring impression on family and friends alike.

He is survived by his sons, Joseph Kline (Dennis) and Dr. John P. Kline (Irina), together with extended family and friends whose lives were enriched by his example.

John’s enduring legacy lives in the lives he shaped through his integrity, generosity, wisdom, quiet encouragement, and unwavering love for his family. He will be remembered with profound gratitude and deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.