Donald J. Rubottom
Obituary
Donald J. Rubottom
Lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
Donald J. Rubottom was born September 29, 1926 in Tulsa, Oklahoma to George William and Nellie Dorcas (Core) Rubottom. He passed from this life January 5, 2017 at the age of 90. Don was a graduate of Will Rogers High School and received his Bachelors degree from Oklahoma A&M University, where he was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. He served in the United States Army from 1945 to 1946.
Don began his career as a Trust Officer at First National Bank and established the Trust Department at Farmers and Merchants Bank during a 50 year investment management career. Later he advised banks, manufacturers and small businesses through his firm Rubottom, Dudash and Associates. He founded Southwest Venture Capital, Inc., SBIC, and served on the National Board of Governors of the National Association of Small Business Investment Companies. Don was the third Chartered Financial Analyst certified in Oklahoma and was founding president of the CFA Society of Oklahoma, receiving their Golden Legacy Award in 2013.
Don was an active member and leader of many local organizations. He joined the Downtown Tulsa Rotary Club in 1972, served as its president, and in 1993 was elected Rotary District Governor. He was a member of Boston Avenue United Methodist Church for over 65 years and taught Adult Sunday School there for most of 40 years. He volunteered for Meals on Wheels and led several Great Decisions discussion groups. He served on the Retired Senior Volunteer Program Advisory Council. Additionally, he coached youth baseball, softball, basketball, and flag football. He loved gardening, the beach and snow skiing; he enjoyed golf and tennis longer than he should have and was an ace bridge player.
Don was preceded in death by his parents; his stepmother, Exie Rubottom; and his sister, Billie Haggard. He is survived by his wife of more than 65 years, Wanda Mae; his daughters and sons-in-law, Rinda and James Skaggs, Joy and Charles Strnad, Jill and John Richmond; his son and daughter-in-law, Don and Sally Rubottom; 16 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the staff and management of Inverness Village and Heather Hall for their devoted caregiving.
A memorial service will be celebrated 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, January 17, 2017 at Boston Avenue United Methodist Church.
In lieu of flowers, friends may contribute in Don’s memory to Rotary Club of Tulsa Foundation, Rotary International, Boston Avenue United Methodist Church, Up with Trees or a favorite charity.
Events
Tributes & Memories
I had two years of financial experience in Omaha on the corporate audit staff of Union Pacific Corporation. I moved to Tulsa in May 1977. I was a late-blooming 1975 graduate of the U. of Oklahoma. As I searched for work in Tulsa, I somehow learned of Mr. Rubottom. I made an appointment to see him at his office. Although he had no professional staff at that time (and wasn't hiring), he was very gracious, encouraging, and pleasant. I noticed a framed certificate on his wall that said 'Chartered Financial Analyst.' I asked him what that was, and he told me. Now, more than 44 years later, I also hold the CFA charter, besides being a CPA. Belated though this condolence is, I am so sorry to learn of his passing nearly five years ago. I send my condolences to his famly and will pray for him tomorrow at church and also tonight, before I go to sleep. Most sincerely-- Warren D. Miller, CPA, CFA Lexington, Virginia
Warren Miller
To the Rubottom Family, I met Don in the early 80's needing to find a reference to help apply to enter the Chartered Financial Analyst program. He took a chance on me because he did not know me that well. I think he saw enough to get behind me and his support and help with my application and his recommendation meant so much to me, and as importantly, to the society who accepted the application. I've never forgot that and thanked him numerous times. He was always gracious and we struck a meaningful acquaintance over the years as we saw each other at society meetings. Please accept my condolences. He was a special man who made an impact on his family, community and to many individuals like me. Blessings, Doug Fears, CFA and retired CFO, Helmerich & Payne, Inc.
Doug Fears
I have lit a candle after eucharist for Daddy every week for the last three years. I am so happy this candle is lit for his delivery into God's hands!
Rinda