David Rusness
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Published in May 2026
David George Rusness, age 64, passed away peacefully at home on May 27, 2026, surrounded by love.
Born on August 3, 1961, Dave grew up in Fargo, North Dakota. He graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School and attended Interstate Business College. Dave spent 34 years working in the insurance industry and took on many part-time jobs over the years to provide the little extras in life for his family. He later worked at Tecton Industries, retiring in October 2023 when his ALS symptoms made working too difficult.
Dave was a man of few words but a very big heart. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures: being at the lake, fishing with a line in the water, camping with family, and taking the pontoon out so the kids could laugh and squeal while tubing behind the boat. He loved the outdoors, quiet moments, and most of all, seeing the people he loved happy.
Family meant everything to Dave. He deeply loved his daughters, sons-in-law, grandchildren, and family gatherings. Holidays were especially meaningful to him, often found in the kitchen preparing turkey, ham basted with Coca-Cola, or grilling for the people he loved. He was happiest sitting back, relaxing, and simply watching everyone enjoy being together.
Dave was a devoted fan of Minnesota sports, especially the Minnesota Twins and Minnesota Vikings. He enjoyed word games, holiday lights, and making memories with family. At the campground, many lovingly knew him as “SuperDave” because he was always ready to lend a hand and help others.
Though quiet by nature, Dave’s love showed up in steady and dependable ways—in helping others, creating family traditions, offering a calm presence, and making memories that will forever be cherished.
Dave is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Diane; daughters, Mikala Ann Stroh (Dustin) of Omaha, Nebraska, and Jamie Lynn Carrillo (Travis) of Moorhead, Minnesota; and his nine beautiful grandchildren: Mykel Stroh, Dayved Stroh, Jaxyn Stroh, Owen King, Cooper Carrillo, Kodi Carrillo, Faith Stroh, Hailee Stroh, and Avery Stroh.
He is also survived by his brother, Ben Rusness (Cheryl) of Council Bluffs, Iowa; half-siblings Cheryl Lemle (Ron) of Reading, Michigan, Rory Rusness (Carol Werner) of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, Collette Murphy (Jeff) of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, Greg Rusness of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, Val Soberg (Tim Priem) of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, and Jeff Rusness (Jill) of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota; parents-in-law Robert and Joyce Remmick of Fargo, North Dakota; brother-in-law Steve Laney of Seattle, Washington; brother-in-law Andy Tollefson of Grand Forks, North Dakota; former sister-in-law Sheila Rabideaux of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, whose love and support meant so much to Dave and his family; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard W. Rusness Jr. and Isabel Margaret (Halliday) Rusness; his twin sisters, Peggy Laney and Paula Parmer; and brother-in-law Bruce Parmer.
The family finds comfort in knowing Dave passed peacefully at home, surrounded by love.
Funeral arrangements are with West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center. We’re waiting to finalize arrangements because of an unexpected family medical situation. Service details will be announced as soon as they are available.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to Compassionate Care ALS (CCALS), P. O. Box 1052, West Falmouth, MA 02574 or online at: ccals.org, an organization that provided equipment, financial assistance, and emotional support throughout Dave’s ALS journey.
The family extends a special thank you to Ethos Hospice for their loving support and compassionate care during Dave’s final months.
In honor of Dave, spend time outdoors, watch a Minnesota Twins or Vikings game, enjoy holiday lights, cast a fishing line, or simply gather with the people you love.