Charles Raymond Rusher

Charles (Charlie) R. Rusher, 92, died peacefully in the loving presence of his two daughters on February 5, 2024. He left an unrivaled legacy of generosity and devotion to those he loved, and he will be missed in ways too numerous to list.

Charles was born on May 11, 1931 in Marceline, Missouri to Rolla and Sylvia (Kitchen) Rusher. After a memorable and decorated football career, he graduated Marceline High School in 1949. Charles earned a full-ride scholarship to play football in Kirksville following graduation, quite a feat for a man whose stature was relatively small in comparison to the size of his heart. Charles’ best advice when it comes to football: “Hit them harder than they hit you!” Despite Charles’ recognition from Kirksville, Uncle Sam had a different plan, and he was drafted into the Army. After receiving sound advice from his longtime friend, Gene Sporer, Charles decided to make a strategic move to serve in the Air Force instead where he served for 4 years as an electrical mechanic and ended his military career as a Staff Sergeant.

Charles and the love of his life, Bonnie Staats, were united in marriage on May 10, 1952. Family lore suggests that even though Charles was a willing and eager participant, it was Bonnie who decided they would wed, and she made the trip from Marceline to Texas with her parents to inform Charles of the good news. After his military service concluded, Charles and Bonnie decided to make Kansas City home following the birth of their beloved daughters Rayma and Leigh. He raised his family at Immanuel Presbyterian Church and later joined Parkville Presbyterian Church. He worked as a lithographer until he retired, and then he and Bonnie enjoyed many adventures that took them to nearly every state in the continental United States. After losing Bonnie in 2011, Charles remained in the home they shared for dozens of years and remained deeply in love with her until he drew his last breath.

The Rusher family enjoyed the outdoors, frequently taking weekend trips to Lake Pomme de Terre to fish, waterski and simply enjoy time together. Charles is described by his daughters as a “total family man.” He was persistently supportive of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren; a patient teacher who was determined to raise his two daughters to be strong and independent women, provided they follow his rules. His family remembers him as an avid outdoorsman, a chocolate enthusiast, a fierce hunter of bargains, a servant to all he loved, a volunteer, a Christian, a nurturing soul who was always available to help and listen and the most amazing Grandpa or “Pa” to ever grace the earth.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Rolla and Sylvia Rusher; his wife, Bonnie; his brother, Rolla Rusher; his granddaughter, Julie Marx; and his granddaughter-in-law, Heather Moburg.

Charles is survived by his daughters Rayma Moburg and Leigh (Kenny) Marx, both of Kansas City; Grandsons Jason (Becky) Moburg, Ben (Amber) Marx and Daniel (Ryan McDonough) Marx, all of Kansas City and Andrew Moburg of Chesapeake, VA. Charles’s family also consists of 7 adoring great-grandchildren, Emma, Kenton, Charlie, Cooper, Ryan, Lincoln and Emmett.