Delbert Arthur Rust

Delbert Arthur Rust, age 78, of Seymour, passed away peacefully on the morning of Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Mr. Rust was a life-long and devoted member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Borchers, where he held various church offices.

Delbert began his working career in high school, helping his dad and brothers spray paint barn roofs and more for Jackson-Jennings Farm Bureau Co-op. They also painted the iconic Majestic Theatre in downtown Seymour. After graduating from Cortland High School in 1964, he enlisted in the Army National Guard on May 1, 1965, and was honorably discharged as a Spec E5 on May 1, 1971. His training took place at Fort Benning, Georgia, and Fort Carson, Colorado. Delbert served as a cook in the Guards, a role he truly enjoyed.

Delbert worked at Cummins Engine Co., where he retired after 36 years of service. He later spent many years driving a bus for the Seymour Community School System.

He enjoyed collecting and restoring horse-drawn farm equipment, planting, and watching the growth of his wildlife plot. He was also a former member of the American Legion and played Dart ball for many years with Cortland North.

Delbert held his family close, particularly the special moments with his wife, starting their mornings together with a few cups of coffee on the patio, relishing each other's company. He also loved being with his children and grandchildren. He had a passion for following a wide range of sports.

Born on November 13, 1946, in Seymour, Delbert was the son of Harry and Dorothea (Newkirk) Rust, both of whom preceded him in death. On June 11, 1984, at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Borchers, he married the love of his life, Debbie Burkman, and she survives in Seymour.

Survivors also include two daughters: Beth (Mike) Albert of Seymour, and Mandy Jackson (Todd Loy) of Seymour; three grandchildren: Spencer Parrish (Hannah and Colton), Luke Jackson, and Lainey Jackson; brothers and sisters-in-law: Dennis Rust of Seymour, Wayne and Anna Rust of Seymour, and Allan and Ann Rust of Lake Zurich, Illinois; sister, Shirley Lewis of Seymour; mother-in-law, Mary Burkman of Columbus; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Mike and Barbara Burkman of Scipio; sister-in-law, Sherry Burkman of Scipio; and several nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, Delbert was also preceded in death by his father-in-law, Charles Burkman; sisters-in-law: Linda Rust and Patty Rust; and brother-in-law, Larry Lewis.

Funeral services for Delbert Arthur Rust will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, February 3, 2025, at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Borchers, with Pastor Steve Wood officiating. Friends may call from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 2, 2025, at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Borchers, and from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, February 3, 2025, at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Borchers.

Interment will follow at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Borchers Cemetery.

Military honors will be presented by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1925, American Legion Post 89, Disabled American Veterans 47, and Vietnam Vets 7.

Memorials may be given to St. Paul Lutheran Church, Borchers, or Schneck Medical Center Hospice.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the caring staff of Spurgeon Funeral Home, Inc.

Online memorials and condolences may be given at www.spurgeonfh.com