David Harrison Rusk, born 01/12/1942 in Honolulu, HI, to William Harrell Rusk and Alice Sullivan Rusk, passed away on Wednesday April 17, 2024 in his home surrounded by family.
Growing up in Ridgewood, NJ and Chestertown, MD, Dave graduated from Rutgers University Class of 1964 with a degree in Agricultural Science. He was a member of Alpha Gamma Ro fraternity.
Dave served in the USAF from 1964-1968 in aircraft maintenance and earned the rank of Captain. While serving in California, he met Cheryl Horst who would become his devoted wife of 55 years.
Dave had a varied career that moved the family across several states, settling in Chattanooga, TN to work for the Krystal Company in Training & Development where he would remain until his retirement.
Dave is survived by his loving wife Cheryl Rusk, daughters Julie Krause (Roy), Melissa Palotta (Scott), and four grandchildren: Cecilia Krause, Vivian Krause, Harrison Krause, and Chelsea Palotta. Dave is also survived by his three siblings Mary Alice Dirks, Herb Rusk (Sue), and Nancy Hackman (Tom).
An avid family historian, Dave worked diligently to restore and maintain the legacy of the Rusk Family Cemetery in Woodstock, GA which earned Cherokee County Historical Society status in 2023, and will be his final resting place.
Dave was an avid lifelong gardener, earning the status of Master Gardener and contributing his passion through education among students in the Gainesville, GA area as well as enhancing the Cresswind Community Gardens with his innovative attention. Dave enjoyed storytelling, theater, and The Liar's Club as an active member of Cresswind Community. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to: Cresswind Community Fund Designate: Cresswind Community Gardens 3300 Marina Drive Gainesville, GA 30504.