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Alexander Rust Obituary
Born June 14, 1984, he was the son of Sylvia J. Rust and the late David W. Rust, and is survived by sisters, Victoria and Regina; brother-in-law, John Bambrick-Rust; and brothers, Solomon, David Jr. and Joseph Rust. He is also survived by half sisters, Ruth Ann Hendrix and Karen Rust; half brothers, Anthony, Marcus, James, John and Robert Rust; and their families.
Alex died in his sleep at a guest house, where he was staying in the sacred Hindu Varanasi area. He had been recovering from typhoid fever for which he previously was hospitalized.
According to his wishes, he has been cremated, and his ashes are being sent home with some of them to be sprinkled in the Ganges River in India.
The family is requesting that friends not send flowers. To honor Alex, the family would like to carry on his spirit through a memorial fund to support an orphanage in the northern India region, since this is the work he was hoping to do during his time there.
A solemn memorial will be conducted from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday and a homecoming celebration of his life will be conducted all day Saturday at 8256 N. Base Road, Seymour.
Transportation will be provided by the Love Bus. Shuttles will leave from the Seymour High School parking lot at 5:15 p.m. and 5:40 p.m. Friday and at 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Saturday. The celebration will include a pitch-in meal, so all those attending can bring a dish to share. A memorial Mass will be celebrated Sunday at Our Lady of Providence Catholic Church in Brownstown.
Memorial donations may be made to the Alexander Rust Memorial Fund and mailed to 8256 N. Base Road, Seymour, IN 47274, or made through Voss and Sons Funeral Service, 316 N. Chestnut St. Seymour, IN 47274.
This obituary was originally published in The Tribune (Seymour, IN).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sharon Lemieux
May 27, 2025
Remembering you and your adventures! A life well lived but indeed, too short.
Cindi Abbott
August 10, 2024
I was moved by his story I wish I had the courage to do what he did to go on his sailing adventure .
I am sad I will never have a chance to meet him he is now one of my heros
My favorite thing about him was how he connected with people so easily and his love for children.
Reminded me of how easily children can become friends even if they don't speak the same language or look simular they don't see in color or race just like the world was supposed to be. loved the story
john johnston
April 3, 2021
wow...what a life! Thank you for your movie that reminds us that life is to be lived.
Steele Trottier
February 7, 2021
Rest easy! You have touched many
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Sharon
December 13, 2020
Thank you Alex for sharing your life and adventures with us....If reincarnation is possible, I am sure you have figured that out and are now walking among us. I use to sail some and have been all around the BVI and U.S. Virgin Islands. The memories came flooding back. Nothing like the majestic oceans to free one’s spirit! Fly high sweet Alex! I am certain you will never be forgotten!
Darrell Howley
November 18, 2020
Free spirit of the world! Rest in peace mate!
Peter
June 13, 2020
It takes courage to follow your dreams, to live without fear is true freedom.
Todd
June 8, 2020
I am so moved by the documentary, he was chasing his dreams and living life in the arms of his father......
A Perfect Life!
jeanette fonseca
December 7, 2019
I watched your documentary omg dude loved it rest in peace hugs
Stephen Lord
December 14, 2018
I only just finnised watching Chasing Bubbles..What a great guy is Alex. I actually live in Adelaide Australia, I'm buying a 40 foot yacht later next year, and plan on sailing around Australia, and heading to various islands. I have little to no experience, but after watch that wonderful video, showing Alex and his many adventures, has only strengthened my resolve, to sail and live aboard a yacht.
My condolences to family of Alex, what a great person you brought into the world, who was taken far to early.
God Bless.
Keil Hampshire
September 19, 2018
What an amazing human being. We've never met but I feel like your a friend and a truly inspirational person
Trish Benjes
May 12, 2018
A lovely soul who was traveling (and allowed us to travel along with him) for the love of the world.
His generosity of spirit; innate brilliance; inquisitiveness, and acceptance of the unfamiliar; humility, co-mingled with courage - what an exemplary human being he was. Such a loss to the world, and far too soon.
Having 'found myself' through sailing many years ago, and having recently seen the documentary of Alex's journey, his quest has become a gentle reminder for me to live with (at least some of) his exuberance for life.
To his mother - you raised a beautiful boy, and a lovely family. All the best to you all in peace and future happiness...
Chadwick Bukur
April 25, 2018
I met someone who dated one of your friends. That is how I first discovered your story. Truly inspired, one day god willing I will complete a circumnavigation myself. God speed! Thank you Alex.
Michael Ostromecky
February 12, 2018
You lived as few men dare to dream.
Adrian Debrah
August 31, 2017
Thank you Alex.
Jon Bailey
August 30, 2017
Alex you were an inspiration to all
Robert Springer
May 30, 2017
Alex, I was sailing the other day maybe for my 10th time.. The captain was telling me about the movie "Chasing Bubbles." So I went home to watch it and you really inspired me. You inspired many. Thank you. RIP.
R T
May 12, 2017
Rest In Peace Alex rust. You are an inspiration to everyone even those yiu never met
janice dance
May 28, 2015
I met Alex in the Marquesas. We were both sailing across the pacific. I was on sv Beaujolais and we helped Alex with developing his sailing skills. He was such an amazing young man, full of life and had such a great sense of fun and adventure. I have only just found out the sad news and already the world seems a little less without him in it. I have not and will never forget him.
Leticia Pasillas
June 15, 2013
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Rashell Teesdale
June 12, 2013
I've never known a face without a name,
Word of your death was full of pain.
I remember the days way back in school,
Such a good friend that everyone knew.
As we long for days remembered in past,
Your memories in us will always last.
Such a good friend so full of trust,
Forever in memory Alexander Rust...
Erica De Los Santos
June 12, 2013
My prayers are with you and your family. I pray that you are now sailing with God and the adventures are endless and out of this world.
alana knotts
June 11, 2013
Tony and Alana Knotts
Brownstown, In
Amanda (Rust) Jackson
June 8, 2013
My heart is heavy with sadness for your family, but overflowing with joy that I was able to know Alex (as a cousin and the experience of being his Luther League chaperone on a trip). His legacy will continue and I pray you take comfort in the joy and inspiration he brought to so many throughout the world.
Brenda Johnson
June 6, 2013
Thank you for making a difference in so many people's lives and a difference in the world. You will be dearly missed.
Gretchen Broman (Poehler)
June 6, 2013
I met Alex my freshman year at Purdue. We continued our friendship to Chicago after graduation. He had an infectious spirit and love for life. I will never forget him. He will be forever missed. My thoughts and prayers go to the Rust family.
Jessica Rowand Holman and Family
June 6, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Jeanette Nunez-Miranda
June 5, 2013
My dearest Sympathies to the Rust Family, Alex was such a fun,kind,thoughtful young man. I met him thru my Daughter and they had quite the adventures. It is a great loss to world that he was taken too soon. My prayers and thoughts with all the friends and family that he has touched over the few years he was with us.
Tonya Hobson
June 5, 2013
We had the opportunity to meet your handsome son Alex on a cold,windy,Sunday in February 08. He drove 3 hours from Chicago to Ossian IN to a funeral and give his love and support to his college friend. We tried to give him a meal before he left and he drove back that day. (that's the son you raised).
Over the years I felt like I knew him. You see Trevor and Alex had a bond like no other and a passion for life and adventure.
I envision Alex with my Kane telling his sailors stories in heaven and the stories that never got told to you and I.
My heart has been heavy all this week for your family, but you have to smile and cry all at the same time for all the great memories and lives he has touched. ~Simply Amazing~
Prayers being lifted as we speak for your peace.
"Always Loved and Never Forgotten"
With a heartfelt Sympathy!
Tonya Hobson
June 5, 2013
I Had the opportunity to meet Alex in person on a cold,windy Sunday in February 08. He drove 3 hours from Chicago to a funeral in Ossian In. to show his love and support to a college friend. We tried to entice him with meal, but he sat sail back to Chicago that day. That's the son you raised.
Over the years I felt like I new him. You see; Trevor and Alex traveled the world together. They have a bond like no other and a passion for adventure.
I envision Alex in heaven telling sailors stories to my Kane; and of course the stories that never got told to you and I.
My heart has been heavy for you all week. Prayers being lifted as we speak.
"Always Loved and Never Forgotten"
God Bless you and your Family!
With Heartfelt Sympathy
Tonya Hobson
sara nunez
June 5, 2013
Rust Family,
Alex welcomed me into your home and his heart, I can only hope I am as hospitible and loving as your family. He will forever be in my heart, as well as everyone he came in contact with. What a special man, soul, spirit, and heart. Much love to you and your family in this time of sorrow and celebration of life.
Carine
June 5, 2013
Dear Rust Family,
I am so sorry for your loss of Alex. My thoughts are with you. I wish you strength and love in these difficult times.
Joe & Kay Hoene
June 5, 2013
You are in our thoughts and prayers. May God give you peace and comfort during this time of loss. Hold on to the memories and they will help you through this difficult time.
Dean Hughson
June 5, 2013
Condolences to the Rust family.
June 5, 2013
Syliva,
Keeping you and your family in our prayers.
Larry Brenda Lukas Logan
Carpenter
Layton Roberts
June 5, 2013
Rust family, I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Alex touched so many lives and had so many amazing experiences. I hope that through him we can all learn to slow down and see the beauty in all things the way he did. His light will shine forever
Tom Waldkoetter
June 4, 2013
What a wonderful young man to have had the honor to call friend. I recently read a postcard he had sent me on one of his world travels. It made me feel special. I am saddened of Alex's recent passing and my heartfelt condolences go out to your family. May God grant you His comfort during this difficult time of loss.
Steve and Melissa Christian
June 4, 2013
He was a wonderful godfather to our granddaughter and he will truly be missed by her and the family.
June 4, 2013
I am so sorry for your families loss. My heart is with you. You are in my thoughts and prayers. love you all.
Robyn Poore
Cathy Allman
June 4, 2013
My heart is sadden by your loss of Alex, but what a life he had. Your memories of Alex and all he did in his life has to lift your heart. It sounds like he enjoyed each day of his life, what a blessing. My prayers are with you.
Adrianne
June 4, 2013
Please accept my sincere condolences. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. May the love of God comfort you and He grant you peace of mind and heart.
Colin Stuart
June 4, 2013
I met Alex only briefly but his impact will last forever, may you find solace in the fact that he truly lived. My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this trying time.
Christine Gordon
June 4, 2013
I'm so sorry.... Alex wasan exquisite human being... the brightness of his future burned my eyes... i am so shocked by all of this. my love goes out to has family and anyone who had the blessing to ever meet him. it will live on in our hearts and thoughts for all eternity...
Michelle Beard-Lucas
June 4, 2013
Alex lived an AMAZING life, one that most of us could only dream about. My prayers are with his family.
Sandra Hoene
June 4, 2013
Sylvia & family,
My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this time of loss. Thank you for sharing Alex with the world; he was an amazing young man. May you find comfort in God's blessings and the impact that Alex has made on the world. Hugs to the entire Rust Clan.
Jordan Sawyer
June 4, 2013
Thoughts and Prayers for your family. May god be by your side during this rough time.
Jewell Hutto
June 3, 2013
Ruth Ann and KY..I am so sorry to hear the news of the loss of your brother. Earth's loss is heaven's gain and I know that your love for the Lord will see you and your family through this trial. Please tell your family that I will be praying and keeping them in my thoughts as well.
Grover & Wendy Mellencamp
June 3, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with your entire family during this time. Alex truly was one of a kind who lived an amazing life! He will be missed but not forgotten!
Charlene Rust Brewer
June 3, 2013
Dear Sylvia and all of Alex's family members--as I know he loved every one of you...There are no words that I can say that will heal the pain and lift the heaviness of your hearts today. I share in your sorrow and will carry you all in my deepest prayers for comfort.
Jeff and Marcia Montgomery
June 3, 2013
Sylvia and Family, please know that you and your family are held closely in our hearts and prayers. Alex lived such an extraordinary life of adventure, joy, sharing with others, and service to our Loving Father! What a remarkable young man who touched so many lives in a positive way!
Shawna Boas
June 3, 2013
May Alex's light continue to shine in all the lives he has touched. God Bless the Rust family.
Kathy Bowling
June 3, 2013
Sylvia and Family you are in our prayers. If you need anything please let us know. Sound like Alex is as free spirit know as he was back when we knew him. Being free is a wonderful when you can live such a fulfilled life. Love to you all. Kids please take care of your mom we love her dearly. Elmer and Kathy Bowling
Katie Disque Spreckelson
June 3, 2013
Sylvia & family-
I am deeply saddened to hear of Alex's untimely death. What a passion for life he had. May God embrace Alex's loving spirit.
Richard & Debi Biffle
June 3, 2013
Though we only knew you briefly, meeting you and Joe in Nanny Cay, Tortola upon the completion of your amazing journey, it is easy to see why you are Loved by so many, and will be missed by all of us. We wish you fair winds and following seas as you begin this untimely journey. Your spirit lives on in all of us!
Natalie Hinton-Jennings
June 3, 2013
I didn't get to know Alex personally, only through mutual friends. Reading about his life makes me wish I had. Many condolences on your loss.
Ashley Wedlock
June 3, 2013
My thoughts are with Alex's family, I was so saddened by the news. Alex and I met 10 years ago in Australia and continued on to Fiji for an adventure and then back again to Australia. We have kept in touch over the years and I would always tell him that hearing about his adventures brightened my desk-job days. He was an inspiring individual and will be missed.
Anita ( Smith)Montgomery
June 3, 2013
Sylvia, so sorry for this tragic loss. My heart is heavy. May God comfort you in this time of sorrow. Derek and Tyler and I will be praying for your family.
Mike and Susan (Otte) Waltz
June 3, 2013
Sylvia and family, Alex had many great adventures that people often dream about. He touched so many in so many ways. His free spirit will be with us all until we meet again.
Sandi, Chet, Zach, Stone, and Kailene Cockerham
June 3, 2013
Sylvia, Victoria, Regina, Solomon, Joe, and David...we are all saddened by Alex's death. We keep you in our prayers, and ask God to keep His arms close around you as you try to heal from this terrible ordeal. Alex was a free spirit, and his smile brightened a room. He was so much like Uncle David in that way! We love you all so much!!!
Rosanna Combs/Rohdert
June 3, 2013
Alex was Amazing. Enjoyed following him on Facebook with his adventures. Strength to all the Rust Family.
Doris and Mark Rorick
June 3, 2013
Sylvia and your entire family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Alex was such a free spirit and he indeed lived life to the fullest. May peace be with you today and in the weeks ahead.
Jennifer Acuna
June 3, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss Alex was such a great person with an amazing spirit may god be with you through this difficult time
Mr.& Mrs Harold Scott
June 3, 2013
We are so saddened to hear of Alex's passing. We send our prayers to the Rust family. And our thoughts are with you.
Nicole Werling (Rothert)
June 3, 2013
Alex was a great person! I enjoyed my time with him as we cheered together at Seymour! He was such a fun person to be around and always made me laugh! Even though he is gone, he will never be forgotten.
Vickie Wayt
June 3, 2013
Sylvia and Family,
I'm so sorry . Alex will be missed .
Your family is in our prayers.
June 3, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Michael Glinski
June 3, 2013
From all of Alex's friends that he met while in Palau, our thoughts and prayers are with his family. We are all so devastated by the news, he was such a special individual, so many people sail through here, but everyone in Palau remembers him still! We miss him very much.
June 3, 2013
Joe and to the rest of the family. My condolences. I followed Alex' s blog and always enjoyed his travels. What a brave man to live his life the way he saw it to be.
Kristen Brasher
June 3, 2013
Solomon, Regina, Victoria, Dave, Chelsey & Joe - Words cannot express the comfort needed for the pain and sadness you are feeling right now. Alex was an amazing person and his character will be greatly missed. I bet he was great to grow up with. I am so sorry for your loss. Everyone loved him. "He's a Rust"
Joyce Vogel
June 3, 2013
Sylvia and family... though he is gone from this earth he will never be gone from the hearts of those who knew him.. I keep you in my prayers..
Curtis Coryea
June 3, 2013
Dear Sylvia and family,
I am deeply saddened by the news of Alex's passing. I remember him as extraordinary in so many ways. My thoughts are with you.
Charlotte Rice-Cartwright
June 3, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss. Keeping you in my prayers.
Dominic Bufton
June 3, 2013
"Each morning we are born again. What we do today, matters most." This was the message my screensaver hit me with this morning, after hearing the news last night. I don't think I ever met anyone who embodied that more than Alex. The world needs more like you, not less buddy. My thoughts are with you Joe and the rest of the Rust family.
Susan and Daniel Holle
June 3, 2013
Dear Sylvia and Family,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. May the Lord be with you and comfort you in your grief.
Katie Kleber-Martin
June 3, 2013
Prayers for the Rust family during this difficult time.
Penny Pava
June 3, 2013
Joe and family,
I am so sorry. Sending love, peace and prayers to you and your whole family. My heart goes out to you.
Candace Foist (Corya)
June 3, 2013
Sylvia and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you. The stories that Solomon shared, sure told of a man who lived an amazing life.
Carol Weil
June 3, 2013
Sylvia & family, we're so sorry to learn of Alexander's death. May God comfort your broken hearts.
Nicholas & Carol Weil
Becky and Scott Davis
June 3, 2013
So sorry for you loss, thoughts and prayers go with you.
Jayme Huberts
June 3, 2013
Victoria, Sylvia, and the rest of the Rust family. I'm sorry to hear of Alexander's passing. He seemed to be a free spirit who lived life to the fullest. Praying for your family during this hard time.
June 3, 2013
Dear Sylvia,
Please know that you are in my prayers.
Love, Kelly Stephens
Duane & Carolyn Carter
June 3, 2013
So sorry for your loss. We will keep all of you in our prayers .
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