Harold "Rusty" William Isbister

In memory, heartfelt sadness and deep love, we the family announce the passing of Harold “Rusty” Isbister, on Monday July 27, 2026 at the age of 66 in Mission, BC. Rusty, with his family and friends shared much love, affection and laughter in his final days.

On January 30, 1960 Rusty was born the youngest of twins to George and Rita Isbister in Vancouver, BC.

As a young boy, he attended Sacred Heart Catholic Elementary School, where he became an altar boy.

In the early years growing up in East Van, Rusty enjoyed sharing endless shenanigans with his brothers and friends. Only one Tarzan call gathered this tight group together. Gibbs Boys Club was a favorite, along with baseball, swimming and camping. The dream of becoming a park ranger reflected his love of the outdoors. Later in life he found his niche in fishing and prospecting.

The move to Mission in 1971 brought new adventures, public school and exploring in the OMI – swimming at the “dam”, ice skating, sledding, hiking to Mount Marianne and running wildly through the trails with his new tribe.

In spite of Rusty’s beautiful spirit and love of family and friends he faced the challenge of addiction. He developed a dependency to alcohol in his teens. This struggle led him to a new community of Alcoholics Anonymous, where he was supported on his recovery journey. Embraced by the people and 12-step program, he received invaluable guidance and honest sharing from the old timers who were willing to give back. Through their example of service his own attitude of giving back was deepened, which helped maintain his sobriety. Volunteering at the Mission Alano Club was especially important to him. Also, as a first nations man he honoured his heritage by helping when needed at the Mission Friendship Centre. On July 4, 2026, he received his 32-year medallion marking his abstinence from alcohol. AA was his church. As he would often say, “But for the grace of God, there go I.”

If you asked Rusty what was most important in his life he would say, “FAMILY”. Rusty is survived by his mother Rita, siblings Sandi, Janice, Randy, Colette, Darcy (Karen), Sherry (Trevor), and Greg. He dearly loved and will be missed by many nieces, nephews, cousins and his extended AA family.

He is predeceased by his father Hilary “George” Isbister, brother Hilary "Dusty" Isbister, nephews Hilary “Joe” Forsythe and Devin Beatty.

The family would like to thank Dr. Juadiong, Dr. Keith, the Mission Palliative Care Team, the nurses and staff at Christine Morrison Hospice for the exceptional care given to Rusty.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, August 14, 2026, 11:00 am at Woodlawn Mission Funeral Home, 7386 Horne Street, Mission, BC.