John 'Jack' Otto Rusher

John "Jack" Otto Rusher, age 85, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Oct. 13, 2024.

He was born April 20, 1939, in Glasgow, Mont., to his loving parents John C. Rusher Jr. and Aileen S. (Christinson) Rusher, of Glasgow. Jack was a proud 1957 graduate of Glasgow High School, home of the Scotties. 

After high school Jack assisted a landscaper with various projects in the Glasgow area. Little did he know his boss, Earl 'Smokey' Marion Rasmussen, would soon be his future father-in-law. Jack continued to work for Smokey in Tri-Cities Washington and began to court his daughter. Jack married his one and only true love, Judy Marie Rasmussen on July 20, 1962.

Later Jack became an employee of the Pasco School District as a devoted custodian of the high school. He took great pride in being the caretaker of the school. His work ethic inspired his three children to work hard, pay attention to detail and do their best at anything they chose to embrace.

Jack and Judy raised their three children in a close family environment, spending most weekends and holidays with the extended family. Judy's mom, Millie, prepared outstanding farm style meals most Sundays for the family to enjoy. Leisure time for Jack was spent fishing and camping with the family.

Jack retired from his custodian profession in 1978. He had the opportunity to assist Judy's sister, Barbara and her family, in the maintenance of her newly purchased Waitts Lake Resort near Valley, Wash. Jack and Judy packed up and made the move, in fact the entire extended family moved. It was as an exciting time and great memories were made at Waitts Lake Resort.

Years later Jack and Judy moved their family to Jump Off Joe Lake, where they engaged in the community and made close friends. They shared 44 wonderful years of marriage until Judy sadly passed away Oct. 31, 2006.

Jack's witty sense of humor blessed family and friends with smiles and giggles. At times he tried to be a grumpy old man, but his kind and loving spirit always managed to shine through.

Jack enjoyed time at The Valley Store with the 'Coffee Crew', watching classic western shows, reading The Glasgow Courier and visiting about his home state of Montana.

Jack experienced health challenges during his last four years of life. The family would like to thank his wonderful team of caregivers. You became part of our family through the love and care you shared.

Jack's passing will be mourned by everyone who knew and loved him. His memory will remain in the hearts of his family and friends. His legacy will live on through generations to come, inspiring honesty, respect and hardworking ethics.

Jack is survived by his children Dean Rusher and wife Gayle of Valley, Karen McElwain and husband Jim, of Polson, Mont., Donnie Rusher and wife Leone, of Meridian, Idaho; as well as nine grandchildren & 10 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Mary Ann Ellsworth, Pauline Jasper and Helen Grant; sisters-in-law Kitty Lou Rusher, Barbara Edwards and husband Fred, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside service was held Oct. 21, at the Chewelah Memorial Park, followed by a celebration of life gathering at Waitts Lake Resort.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Valley Food Pantry located in Valley, Washington.