A Knight in Shining Armor

On December 27th humans and animals alike lost our very dear friend and champion, Jeffrey L. Rusk.

In addition to his many business and career accomplishments, in his own quiet way Jeff rescued countless unfortunate animals or people that crossed his path. More than one unlucky kitten owes his life to Jeff.

Examples of the kindness and generosity of Jeffrey's soul was evident on many occasions: when he stopped to help a stranger - a battered woman - giving her shelter with his family, when he rescued and adopted from a shelter his cat Domino, and the countless times that Jeff has helped his friends. Jeffrey was the friend you could depend on when times were tough.

Jeffrey packed more living, experiences and adventures in his short life than most. The fact that he was a gentleman was obvious in his shy smile and soft southern drawl. But the mischievous twinkle in his blue eyes hinted at his lifelong love of action and adventure.

But whether he was up or down on the wheel of life, Jeffrey treated everyone as his friend.

In tribute to Jeffrey's lifelong sensitivity to all creatures of the world and in honor of his gallant nature, his friend's have donated the funds and supplies to support 70 homeless cats his memory. These 70 cats are sheltered in a private, non-funded home by a woman who struggles to support the cats while also caring for her ex-husband - who is paraplegic.

Once again, Jeffrey Lee Rusk rescues a damsel in distress.

Jeff, we will miss you.

Diane Bratsos Shaw & Scott Shaw
Adella & Dick Bratsos
Diane Peckham Foulds & Eliot Foulds
Lynne Connolly Lohnes & Tom Lohnes
Laura Kelly Marks


NORTHBOROUGH -­ Jeffrey L. Rusk, 52, of Northborough, died Monday, Dec. 27, 2004, in Marlborough. He was the husband of Kay Tomashunas for 18 years. Born in Tulsa, Okla., he was the son of Adeline Rusk of Ducanville, Texas, and the late Harley Rusk and was raised in the Dallas area. He was most recently employed as a sales representative for Cornerstone Affiliates in Westborough. He worked as a director at Fidelity Investments in Marlborough and Merrimack, N.H., for five years. From 1981 to 1996, he was employed at Stratus Computer in Marlborough.

He was an avid golfer and enjoyed snowboarding and reading. He was a talented craftsman, who worked with metal and stained glass. He sold his handmade jewelry at Craftworks in Northborough and Heritage Artisans in Holliston under the name of Kathryn Rusk Designs.

Besides his wife and mother, he leaves two daughters, Shiloh Rusk of Hawaii and Nina Rusk of Northborough; one granddaughter; two brothers, David and Timothy Rusk; two sisters, Becky Casteel and Rachael Brown; and several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be Monday, Jan. 3, from 5 to 8 p.m., at Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main St. (Rte. 20), Northborough. Funeral services and burial are private.