Ricardo M. Rustia

Dr. Ricardo Merced Rustia passed away peacefully on July 15, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on June 13, 1932, in Baliwag, Philippines, Ricardo was the youngest of eight siblings. Though his father passed away before he was born, Ricardo was raised by his strong and entrepreneurial mother, who ensured he received a quality education and was instilled with discipline, compassion, and resilience, traits that would define his life and career.

Ricardo graduated from the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, one of the Philippines’ most prestigious universities. His medical journey took him to the United States through an exchange program in Kirkwood, Missouri, followed by further training in Chicago. After briefly returning to the Philippines to practice medicine, Ricardo was sponsored to return to the U.S., where he would ultimately become a proud American citizen.

He began his medical career in Winneconne, Wisconsin, before being appointed as the village family practitioner in Pulaski, Wisconsin. Known for his tireless dedication, Ricardo treated his patients with warmth and respect, often making house calls, no matter the hour or weather. His work reflected his deep sense of service and commitment to others.

In 1976, Ricardo answered another call to serve, joining the United States Air Force as a Lieutenant Colonel and serving at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, Kansas. A few years later, he joined a private medical practice in Kenosha, Wisconsin, where he continued to care for patients with his trademark warmth and devotion.

After retiring, Ricardo moved to Sarasota, Florida, to be near family. It was there that he met Margarita, a kind and devoted spouse who remained by his side until his passing.

He is survived by his children, Michael, Rachel, and Andrew; by Virginia, Linda, and Margarita; and by many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family. Ricardo’s legacy of compassion, service, and quiet strength lives on in all who knew and loved him.

There will be a visitation on Tuesday, July 22, from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m.; a funeral ceremony from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.; and an informal reception from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. All services will be held at Robert Toale & Sons Funeral Home at Palms Memorial Park, 170 Honore Avenue, Sarasota, FL.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests prayers or donations be made in Dr. Rustia’s honor to your charity of choice.