Wesley Rust

Wesley was born on May 14th, 1996, in Pretoria, South Africa, to Caroline and Pierre Rust, and grew up alongside his sister, Stephanie. From the beginning, Wesley was full of life and curiosity — a boy who adored the wildlife of the Kruger National Park, found beauty in lions, and was endlessly fascinated by the wonders of science. He had a restless energy and a drive that seemed to carry him from one passion to the next — from rugby to cricket, gymnastics, and martial arts — excelling in everything he touched.

Wesley’s journey took him far beyond South Africa. In 2011, his family moved to the United States, where he continued to grow into the remarkable man we all came to know. He carried with him the values he’d learned at home — dedication, integrity, and a deep love for family. His ability to connect with others, to form bonds that lasted a lifetime, was one of his greatest gifts. Whether in South Africa or serving in the U.S. Army, Wesley inspired those around him. His friends and fellow soldiers saw in him not just a leader, but a role model — someone who led with compassion and earned respect through his example.

Wesley found profound joy in the simple things: fishing, hunting, motorcycles, and even chasing tornadoes—always with that spark of adventure. He loved his dogs Spike, Shiloh, and Bandit, and dreamed of one day having a farm where he could live humbly and close to the land. One of his most cherished experiences was a trip to Mount Rushmore with his father, Pierre. That journey wasn’t just an adventure — it was a symbol of the bond between father and son, built on shared wonder, laughter, and respect for the beauty of nature.

But the greatest chapters of Wesley’s life were written in love — in his marriage to Alexis Robison, who he loved fiercely, and in the boundless pride he took in being the father of his son, Cody. To them, and to his mother Caroline, his father Pierre, his sister Stephanie, and his godfather Calvin, Wesley was more than family — he was the heartbeat that brought warmth and laughter into everyday life.

Those who knew Wesley will remember his empathy, his selflessness, and the way he could make anyone feel seen and valued. He gave without hesitation, listened without judgment, and loved without limit. He was proud of his roots, proud of his service, and above all, proud of his family.

Wesley was a mama’s boy, a devoted husband, a loving father, a steadfast friend, and a true leader. His life reminds us that greatness doesn’t come from titles or achievements, but from the way we treat others — with kindness, humility, and heart. Wesley’s spirit continues in all the lives he touched — in his son’s bright eyes, in the memories shared among friends, and in every mountain, every sunrise, and every gentle reminder of a life lived fully and selflessly.

Though his journey was far too short, Wesley’s spirit will live on through the many lives he’s touched — in every laugh shared, in every story told, and in every act of courage done in his memory.

Rest peacefully, Wesley. Your strength, your love, and your light will never fade.