Stephen Rust

FINDLAY -- Stephen Carl Rust, of Findlay, Ohio, left this earthly life peacefully, unexpectedly and suddenly on Valentine's Day, February 14, 2026. He was born in Bryan, Ohio on July 25, 1952, living a life devoted to God, caring for his family and enjoying life to the fullest each day.

Stephen was born to the late Rev. Harold C. and Anna Heller Rust. Being the son of a pastor, Stephen lived in many states. While attending Capital University, he met the love of his life, Joy Harrison Rust. They celebrated 50 years of marriage on June 21, 2025. He attended Trinity Seminary (Columbus, OH) and was ordained on June 18, 1978. He served parishes in Florida, Illinois and North Carolina.

Stephen delighted in the stories and successes of his three children and their families: Dr. Jennifer Ann Abbås, John Carl Rust, and Joel William Rust. He adored his six grandchildren Laney, Carly, Billy and Johnny Rust; Henry and Estella Abbås.

Stephen was the oldest of 4 children, and is survived by his wife, Joy, as well as siblings Rev. Dr. Theodore Rust, Andrew Rust and Elizabeth Rust Windisch. He was loved by many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews who never knew what Uncle Steve might say or do to entertain them.

Stephen was an avid sportsman, loved attending sporting events, and was a diehard Pittsburgh fan. He learned the meaning of hard work and gave this lesson to many. His humor and quick wit were a gift to so many.

A Celebration of Life was held on Tuesday, February 24 at 11:00am at First Lutheran Church, Findlay. Memorials in Stephen's honor may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 3 Summit Park Drive #550, Independence, OH 44131, or to the First Lutheran Church elevator fund, 109 East Lincoln Street, Findlay, OH 45840.

Online condolences and the complete obituary may be found at barndtfuneralhome.org.