Hamilton passed away peacefully at home in York, Maine surrounded by his loving family, on Saturday, March 12, 2022.  Born on November 13, 1931 in San Francisco, California, he was the son of Martha Emily Benavides of Silver City, New Mexico and Hamilton Stretton Rutherford of Belfast, Ireland. He is survived by his inseparable bride of 59 years, Elisa, his four children, Debra, Stretton, Alexa and Andrea, his three grandchildren, Jenna, Kyle and Alexander, his great granddaughter, Eliza.

Affectionately known as Scot or Scoty, he was known as an incredibly hard worker, an entrepreneur, a great conversationist. He cultivated long lasting friendships, among them a very special group of families that were a core part of our family with unforgettable traditions such as our most memorable, Candy Day and other wonderful holiday traditions and gatherings.

Hamilton was the most wonderful, kind-hearted, loving, man, with a beautiful smile and shining sweet brown eyes that radiated kindness, who without fail, remembered everyone he met by name. He was always full of wonderfully vivid and captivating stories. Among the favorites were about the iconic "Flying A" gas station in Los Angeles, very fond memories of life on the cattle farm of Bar NR Ranch in Oregon, and lastly the opening of South Grove Liquor, all with best friend and business partner, Dick Norberg. Scot moved on to open the famous La Fiesta Liquor & Deli in San Diego, CA.

Hamilton served 8 years in the U.S. Navy, and he truly loved to volunteer. He was dedicated to serving the Catholic church in any capacity, and always was there to help his community and those in need through personal connections, the San Diego Mission de Alcalá, St.Anthony's in Waldport, and both the Rotary and Kiwanis organizations.

He enjoyed many outdoor adventures, fishing, camping, golfing, sailing, traveling and gardening. He was a dedicated sports fan, who enjoyed many a San Diego Charger game with his family and dear friends; and finally a passionate Red Sox fan (with the Mariners still in his heart).

Hamilton raised his family in California, and later retired to the Oregon Coast where he and Elisa cared for both his mother and mother-in-law. The ocean always held a special place in his heart and over the past several years, Hamilton came to his last home, in York, Maine, to be with his family on the East Coast, enjoying many special family occasions, wonderful time with his grandchildren, and great grand-daughter, listening to the Saturday Polka Party on the radio, and sharing his love with new and old friends.

He will be greatly missed by all, loved forever and will always remain in our hearts.