Kim F. "Hank" Rusk

Kim Francis "Hank" Rusk, 68, of Rensselaer, Indiana passed away on October 3rd, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. He was born on December 5th, 1956, in Jasper County, Indiana as the third son of John Howard and Evelyn (Jonas) Rusk. As an adventurous youth, Hank developed life-long friendships with neighbors and enjoyed spending time on the waters of Lake Shafer. Eager to work for his father at the Johnny Rusk Company, Hank's strong work ethic paid off where he purchased his favorite car, a 1969 Dodge Super Bee at the age of 15. A graduate of Rensselaer Central High School in 1976, Hank continued to work for his father and met the love of his life Lori Barkley. They married on August 11th, 1979, and soon after welcomed son Randy. After his father retired, Hank joined the United Furniture Workers Union (IUW Local 303) and began his career working at the local Sealy Springs/Leggett & Platt factory. In 1986, Hank warmly welcomed another son Seth to the family. He continued to work in various roles at the factory until he retired after 32 years of dedicated service. Over the years, Hank selflessly helped friends and family in need. He meticulously restored his childhood home, cared for both domestic and neighborhood wildlife, and enjoyed spending the weekends with his wife at the local winery. As a grandfather, he was lovingly known as "Papa". In a final act of kindness, Hank donated to the Gift of Hope organization. He will be dearly missed by those who knew him and forever remembered by those who loved him. Hank is survived by his loving family, wife Lori (Barkley) Rusk of Rensselaer, IN; brother Eric Paul "Rick" Rusk of Buffalo, IN; son Random "Randy" Rusk of Rensselaer, IN; granddaughter Sonny Anderson of DeMotte, IN and grandson Random "Ollie" Rusk of Rensselaer, IN. Mother-in-law, Carolyn Barkley, and Brother-in-law Steve Barkley of Rensselaer, IN. He was preceded in death by his parents John Howard & Evelyn, his brother James John Rusk, and son Seth Thomas Rusk. Father-in-law, Larry Barkley. Private family services will be held at a later date. Jackson Funeral Chapel of Rensselaer has been entrusted with the arrangements.