Virgil Dean Rusk, 78, of Brashear, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, October 7, 2025.

Born November 14, 1946, in Gibbs, Missouri, Virgil was the son of the late Virgil Mack and Ola Dean (McFarland) Rusk. He was also preceded in death by his beloved son, Christopher Dean Rusk, his brother, Tony Rusk, and his sister, Joanna Allen. On September 29, 1968, in Kirksville, Missouri, Virgil was united in marriage to Elberta
Lee Dobbs, who survives after fifty-seven years of marriage.

In addition to his wife, Virgil is survived by his son, Shawn Ray (Sheri) Rusk, of Brashear; one grandchild, Melissa “Missy” Rusk of Kirksville; two brothers, Gale (Rose) Rusk of Brashear and David Rusk of Kirksville; and two nieces, Linsey (Chuck) Zuccarini and Rashanea (Ryan) Rusk, both of Brashear.

After graduating from Brashear High School in 1964, Virgil went on to honorably serve his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He later spent several years working for local companies before establishing his own business, Rusk and Pinkerton Construction, where he worked proudly as a self-employed contractor for more than twenty years.

Virgil loved spending time outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. He took great pride in caring for his home and could often be found mowing and tending to his property. When not outdoors, Virgil enjoyed watching baseball and football—always cheering for his favorite teams, the Kansas City Chiefs and the St. Louis Cardinals.

In honoring Virgil’s wishes, he will be cremated. A graveside service with military honors will be held at a later date at the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Jacksonville, Missouri.

Arrangements are under the care of Travis-Noe Funeral Home in Kirksville, Missouri.