James (Jim) William Rustad

Rustad, James William (Jim)

Age 83, of St Paul, MN passed away on September 23, 2025, after a short struggle with MDS syndrome and heart failure. He was preceded in death by his parents Arne and Maxine Rustad.

Jim graduated Washburn High School and the University of Minnesota with degrees in Chemical Engineering, Law, and an MBA. He was president of the student body and an active member of the ATO fraternity. He maintained those friendships throughout his life.

Jim retired from RBC Wealth Management in 2005, where he was a financial consultant to individuals and small companies. This gave him time to pursue his passion for the arts. He especially liked organizations that were small, showed potential for growth and needed community and fiduciary support. He chaired the boards of the Minnesota Museum of American Art, Park Square Theatre, and the Weisman Art Museum. He was an active board member of the American Craft Council, COMPAS, Headwaters Foundation for Justice, and the American Refugee Committee (now Alight). He also took a very strong interest in Public Art Saint Paul and the SooVac Gallery for emerging artists. When Jim took on a responsibility with an organization, he gave it his all. He said you show up, spread the word about the organization to others, and do your part to help the organization succeed. Both Jim and Kay enjoyed traveling and visiting museums, galleries, and art openings. They collected art, largely from Minnesota artists, and frequently opened their home for events in support of non-profits.

An incredible networker, Jim enjoyed connecting people. He listened carefully to people, cared about their concerns and interests, and frequently made important connections for them. He was quiet, humble, loyal, a mentor, and a great friend. Besides, he was witty, funny, and very humorous.

He is survived by Kay Thomas, his partner and best friend for over 30 years: sons Andrew (Tara) and Ted: and grandchildren Dalton, Bradley, Ayden, and Jacob; and other relatives and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 8 at 11:00 a.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1200 Marquette, Minneapolis. A reception/party will follow the ceremony with Dixieland music which he played and loved. Parking is available in an underground ramp below the church. The service will be live-streamed.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to The Minnesota Museum of American Art, Park Square Theatre, the American Craft Council, or to the University of Minnesota Law School for students showing a commitment to social justice.