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Russell Wayne "Rusty" Rahn

1955 - 2025

Russell Wayne "Rusty" Rahn obituary, 1955-2025

BORN

1955

DIED

2025

FUNERAL HOME

Erie County Cremation Service

873 Abbott Road

Buffalo, New York

Russell Rahn Obituary

Rahn, Russell Wayne "Rusty"

Mar 20, 1955 - Oct 13, 2025

Of Lackawanna, New York, passed away at 8:30 a.m. on Monday, October 13th at Hospice Buffalo, at age 70. Rusty was born in Beardstown, Illinois, to Vernon E. and Dorothy B. (Kost) Rahn. Rusty married Patricia Sugnet in 1978, and together they had two children, Justin and Sarah, before their relationship ended. He is survived by his longtime fiancé and companion, Diana "Char" Shaffer. Rusty's family includes his son, Justin, and Justin's wife, Rachael, of Clarence Center, New York; his daughter, Sarah Rahn, and her fiancé Bobby, of Palm Bay, Florida; and five beloved grandchildren: Xander, Angelina, Natalie, Kayla, and Robbie. Rusty is also survived by his sister, Sally Lael of Beardstown, Illinois; two brothers, Michael of Athens, Illinois, and Danny of Beardstown, Illinois; three nieces: Buffy Lael-Wolf of Springfield, Illinois, Erika (Rahn) Gorny of Springville, New York, and Tarra (Lael) Winters of St. Louis, Missouri; as well as one nephew, Thad Lael of Yorkville, Illinois. Rusty was well-known for his fun-loving personality, always bringing laughter to those around him. He cherished his family and friends deeply. His memory will live on through the love, joy and shenanigans he shared with those fortunate enough to know him. No prior visitation. A Celebration of Life will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements by: ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 824-6435. Please share your condolences at: www.eriecountycremationservice.com.

Published by Buffalo News on Oct. 19, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
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2 Entries

Gregg cialfi

October 20, 2025

Rusty was my boss at ABR in the early 90s.Not just a boss but a great friend. He helped my family out many times and was very generous to all. Many a laugh at work . Never will forget you ! Many fond memories. Gregg Cialfi

Mikey banas

October 19, 2025

I met rusty 6 years maybe longer at the American legion post 1449 ny. Togeather with a handful of dedicated men we started a squadron of The Sons of The American Legion. His memory will be carried on as his name will forever be on our original charter! Rest in peace brother ! Mike Banas , commander sons of the legion post 1449 NY

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Funeral services provided by:

Erie County Cremation Service

873 Abbott Road, Buffalo, NY 14220

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