Darlene Rutberg

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Darlene Larrie Rutberg, 79, of Los Angeles, California, who passed away peacefully at her assisted living community in Sherman Oaks.

Darlene was born on July 26, 1945, in Los Angeles to Odessa Hortense Kendall and Adam Arbaugh. She grew up in Echo Park and graduated from John Marshall High School, later earning a master’s degree in Theatre Arts from Cal State Los Angeles.

A lifelong Angeleno, Darlene began her career as an actress and model, gracing the covers of several magazines before discovering her passion for writing. She went on to become a successful publicist for more than two decades, working first for the Los Angeles Dodgers and later joining The Carrolls Agency, headquartered on the Universal Studios lot. During her tenure, she managed high-profile accounts including the Shubert Theatre, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, The Magic Castle, and the Universal Amphitheatre.

Darlene retired from publicity in the 1980s to focus on raising her children and supporting the judicial career of her husband, The Honorable Michael B. Rutberg, who served as a judge [in the XXX XXX Superior Court] for over 30 years.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Michael; her children, Amy, Nicole, and Neil; and her five cherished grandchildren: Skyler, Jake, Wynn, Rowan, and Miles.

Darlene loved gardening, maple donut bars, dogs, and going to the movies — but above all, she loved her family. She will be remembered for her artistic eye, sharp sense of humor, and unwavering devotion to her husband and children.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, July 24, at 1:30 p.m. at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, California