Wilma Jean Rusk

Wilma Jean Rusk passed away peacefully at home on August 10, 2026, surrounded by people who loved her. She was only 62 years old and will be deeply missed.

Born Wilma Jean Long on June 10, 1964, in Cadillac, Michigan, Wilma faced challenges early in life. She became a mother at just 18 years old and had to grow up quickly, carrying responsibilities at an age when most people are only beginning to find their way. But those hardships never dimmed her bright spirit. Through difficult times, she held on to her sense of humor, her positivity, and her ability to find joy in the people around her.

In 1984, she married Robert “Bob” L. Rusk, and together they shared more than four decades of life.

Wilma had a way of making friends wherever she went. She will be remembered for her infectious laugh, her positivity, and the fun-loving spirit she carried with her. She enjoyed people and had a natural way of making those around her feel welcome.

Much of Wilma’s life was spent caring for others. She worked professionally as a caregiver, which suited her generous nature and the way she was always looking after someone. Life had given her plenty of reasons to become hardened, but that was never who Wilma was. She continued to laugh, care for others, make friends, and bring warmth into the lives around her.

She found happiness in the simple things. She loved playing bingo, swimming with friends, and knitting and crocheting blankets for the people she cared about. Her grandchildren knew her as Granny, and every holiday they could look forward to the care packages she put together just for them. Those small traditions were some of the many ways she showed her love.

Her family was an important part of her life, including her husband Bob Rusk, her son Will Rusk and his wife Cassandra, and her grandchildren Casper, Rex, Hayden, and Quinn. She also shared her life with her siblings Norma and Robert Dickey, Randy Long, Diane and Troy Barlous, and Jennie Rathburn, along with her nieces and nephews Travis, Christopher, Shelly, Billy, Jennifer, and Troy.

Wilma will be remembered in so many ordinary and beautiful ways. In the sound of her infectious laugh. In the blankets she made by hand. In holiday packages from Granny. In afternoons spent swimming with friends, nights playing bingo, and in the many people she cared for throughout her life.

Most of all, she will be remembered for a bright spirit that life never managed to take from her. Through hardship and change, she remained positive, found reasons to laugh, and continued bringing that light to the people around her.

The love she gave and the memories she left behind will remain with her family and friends for years to come.

Private services will be held in her memory