Tom Rusher, 68, passed away Saturday, Jan. 12, 2019. He proudly served his country during the Vietnam War in the U.S. Army. Tom was preceded in death by his parents, William D. Rusher (Father) and Thelma L. Rusher (Mother), and brother, Gale D. Rusher. Survivors: Wife, Nita Rusher of Derby, KS; Sons, Tracy Rusher (Holly) of Strasburg, VA and Aaron Rusher (Sandy) of Derby, KS; Grandchildren: Kyli Rusher, Bryton Rusher, Treyton Rusher, Tate Rusher, and Tinleigh Rusher. Living siblings include Jerry Rusher of OK, Darrel Rusher of Mo, and Judy Imel of KS. All are welcome to Family Visitation: Thursday, January 17th, 2019 from 6pm to 8pm at First Presbyterian Church, 324 N. Baltimore Ave., Derby, KS. Celebration of Life: Friday, January 18th, 2019 at 10:30am First Presbyterian Church, Derby. Graveside: 12:30 pm at Kansas Veterans' Cemetery, 1208 North College Street, Winfield, KS.
Tom worked for the Civil Service at McConnell Air Force Base, and various Building Controls companies including Kansas Trane Controls, Dynamic Controls, and Sandifer Engineering & Controls.
Tom was a strong advocate for Derby wrestling and football. He coached his son, Aaron, for years, and continued to support the club helping grow it into the organization it is today. In his years of retirement, he supported his grandkids in the program, often recognized by his booming voice from the stands.
Tom enjoyed raising cattle, and attending PBR and NASCAR events. He was also a College Football enthusiast cheering on the Oklahoma Sooners. Tom enjoyed a variety of music, sunsets from his driveway, and good conversation (or debate) with his friends. Tom was not afraid to discuss his many differences with family and friends. We will deeply miss him.
Memorial contributions may be made to: Victory in the Valley, http://victoryinthevalley.org/donations/
or to Derby VFW Post 7253.