A. G. "Jerry" Rusconi
January 12th, 2015
A.G. “Jerry” Rusconi
WW II Veteran
First Special Service Force “Black Devils”
We are deeply saddened to announce the peaceful passing of Jerry on January 12, 2015 in the Veterans Wing of the Wascana Rehabilitation Centre. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Betty, daughter-in-law Gloria, sister Dorothy, and brother Ray. Jerry is survived by his three sons Grant (Linda) of White Rock, BC, Gary (Kim) of Trenton, ON, and Garth of Regina; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Jerry lived a full life. As a young man he excelled at many sports including track and field, boxing, swimming, football, and curling. He joined the Army and earned his paratroop wings in Canada, England, and United States. He then joined the First Special Service Force (FSSF) in 1942 and remained with the force until it was disbanded in 1944. Jerry was wounded four times during the war and was a decorated soldier. He is also a recipient of the prestigious Congressional Gold Medal which will be presented to his family at a formal ceremony in February 2015 in Washington, DC. After the war, Jerry returned home to Regina. He then embarked on a lengthy career in the foot wear industry culminating with a 15 year management position in Calgary. His retirement brought him back to Saskatchewan where he settled in Regina Beach and subsequently Regina. We extend our thanks and appreciation to the entire staff at the Veterans Wing for their kindness and high level of care. Upon Jerry’s request there will be no service.Messages:
Barb and I were sorry to hear about Jerry's passing. We enjoyed a many good times and laughs with your mom and dad whether it was at the curling rink (Regina Men's Bonspiel - Wascana curling Club when it was 30 below zero outside and 40 below zero in the rink) and visiting with them in Calgary). Your dad was a truly outstanding individual and will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Barb and Don Phillips
To Garth and Family: We were sad to hear of your Dad's passing. We really enjoyed getting to know your Dad at the Renaissance. We had some good times together and it was nice when you all came as a family to see him. He did appreciate those visits. We pray for you in the days ahead. Garth if you are in the city call Mike and he would love to have breakfast with you. Keep all those great memories of your Dad close in your hearts. We at the Renaissance did love him. He had the greatest smile ever. Blessings to each of you as his family.
We enjoyed many hours of listening to Jerry's stories, golfing with him at the RBGC. He was a character and will be missed!
My sympathies go out to Jerry's family. I knew him through mutual friends at Regina Beach & when he moved into Regina, I ran into him often at the Renaissance & Parkside when visiting my mother-in-law. He always had a smile and loved to joke around. May fond memories of him help you cope at this difficult time.
Garth and family: Our condolences and deepest sympathy on the loss of your father. With peace and understanding
I was saddened to read of Jerry's passing. I had the pleasure of having Jerry as my first boss when I was a young man just starting out in the work force in the 1960's at Richmond's Shoes. He was a terrific man to work for. A true gentleman. Kind, generous, funny, understanding, were just some of the tributes Jerry had. Over the years I have thought of him always with fond memories. I extend my deepest sympathy to Grant, Gary and Garth and their families during this difficult time.
It was my late mother and father, Joan and Art, who were great friends of Jerry and Betty when we lived in Regina, and I have fond memories of our overnight visits to the Rusconi cottage in the late 50's, before my father was transferred to Edmonton in 1960. I remember Jerry as a great father to Grant, Gary and Garth, and a generous and happy soul. As documented in the description above, his time with us was clearly, a life well lived. Every best wish to Grant, Gary and Garth and their families.