Russ L. Trefz

Trefz Russ L. Trefz, our beloved Rusty's passing from this world on June 5, 2013 was unexpected, yet peaceful, going home to be with his cherished Martha. He was born October 25, 1927 Cincinnati, Ohio to Elizabeth M. and Vernon L. Trefz. Russ graduated from North Adams High School, Seaman, Ohio and later served in the U.S. Army World War II. He attended the University of Cincinnati and Otterbein College where he was a member of Zeta Phi fraternity. Russ was a free spirited, fun loving, family man with a well known head strong undertone. It was recently shared, "a character unrivaled by any other." He was always quick with a story to tell or a witty retort to quip. From his humble farm roots in Adams County he emerged into his life in Columbus. He loved to revel in his stories from his days serving Harry James at The Crystal Room of the Fort Hayes Hotel to Queen Elizabeth at Darby Dan Farms. Rusty's stories of the 50's in Columbus included a highlight of the era traveling to away OSU football games by rail, where he met his Martha. They married November 10, 1955. From his natural gift of hospitality, Rusty developed his charismatic personality into a successful professional career in insurance sales with Mutual of Omaha and Farmers Insurance. Once retired, he enjoyed his travels with Martha and snow birding in Englewood, FL. After Martha's passing in 2002, he found great enjoyment in his life at The Polo Club with his neighbors and friends. As an avid reader, Rusty could be found at the Gahanna Library on a regular basis. Sounds of the Big Bands, Jazz, golf, OSU Buckeyes, Steelers, Reds, and recently, NASCAR occupied his leisure time. While a man of quiet faith, being an over fifty year member of Mifflin Presbyterian Church, Rusty served as Trustee, Deacon, Meals on Wheels, Youth Group Leader and Sunday School Teacher. He will be dearly missed by his sister, Roma Williams of Xenia; his daughter, Alison of Gahanna; good friend, Mark Mathes and son Christopher of New Albany; sister in law, Ruth Jamieson of The Woodlands; many loving nieces and nephews; and many wonderful friends. Our Heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Rob Zaino for his care and friendship throughout the years and to Cassey Pickens his nurse angel who so preciously guided him through his final journey at Mount Carmel East. Final arrangements made by Ohio Cremation Services. A Memorial Service will be held June 21 at Mifflin Presbyterian Church, Gahanna, Ohio. His remains will be laid to rest with his Martha at Swamp College Cemetary, Celina, Ohio. Contributions in Rusty's memory may be made to The Memorial Fund of Mifflin Presbyterian Church, 123 Granville Street, Gahanna, OH 43230 or Capital Area Humane Society, 3015 Scioto Darby Executive Court, Hilliard, OH 43026. cahs-pets.org.