Charles "Rusty" Whitner

Obituary for Charles R. “Rusty” Whitner

Charles R. “Rusty” Whitner, 69, passed away peacefully at home on December 2, 2025, in Mesquite, Nevada. Born on September 3, 1956, in Millville, Pennsylvania, Rusty was the beloved son of Donald R. Whitner and Vivian J. (Welliver) Whitner.

Rusty grew up in Millville on Walnut Street alongside his parents and brother. He was an active and spirited student—playing soccer and baseball, participating in theater, and taking the memorable solo role of the Lion in The Wizard of Oz. A dedicated Boy Scout, Rusty achieved the rank of Eagle Scout with Palm and proudly attended both the World Jamboree in Japan and the National Jamboree in Idaho. Deeply rooted in his hometown, he served with the Millville Police and Fire Departments and was a member of the Little Fishing Creek Rod and Gun Club. He enjoyed racquetball, pickleball, hunting, and fishing—especially when sharing time outdoors with his son and grandchildren.

Following high school, Rusty attended and graduated from the Guthrie School of Nursing school (Robert Packard Hospital) in Sayre, New York. He went on to devote 44 years to a distinguished career as a registered nurse and flight nurse, serving in emergency rooms across the country.

Rusty’s love of the mountains shaped much of his life. He treasured skiing with family and friends, especially during the annual family ski camp, and he relished evenings filled with card games, stories, and laughter. He found joy in hiking and biking near his home in Fairplay, Colorado, with his wife and their dogs, as well as white-water rafting, RV camping, and spending time outdoors. At home, Rusty was often found woodworking, fixing or building things, and preparing firewood each season. Until health concerns required him to leave the high altitude he adored, Rusty was deeply involved in his community, including serving for many years as a board president of his HOA in Fairplay.

Rusty is survived by his companion of 42 years, Linda (Swisher) Whitner of Mesquite, Nevada; his son Jason Whitner and wife Sara of Littleton, Colorado; and his cherished grandchildren Mackenzie, Logan, and Grace. He is also survived by his brother Reber Whitner and wife Stephanie Manos of Bethany Beach, Delaware. He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald R. Whitner and Vivian J. Whitner. Rusty will be remembered for his warmth, his humor, his love of adventure, and his unwavering devotion to family and community. His presence will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A private service will be planned for Spring 2026 and announced later by the family.

Donations can be made in memory of Charles to Canyon Hospice, Mesquite, NV.