Willis "Speed" Rusk

Willis "Speed" Rusk, 98, of Francesville, and formerly of Monon, passed away on Friday, January 2, 2026 at Parkview Haven Retirement Home. 

He was born on February 17, 1927 in Francesville. On July 27, 1947 he married Wilma "Jean" Rusk at her family home. She preceded him in death on May 3, 2025. 

He was a 1947 graduate of Reynolds High School and went on to work as a heavy equipment operator before moving to trucking. Most of his career was spent as a truck driver. He worked for Jones Chemical Trucking Company in Beech Grove and Dallas Mavis Trucking.

He was a member of Monticello Christian Church. Speed enjoyed wood working and was a known craftsman for repairs and custom-made pieces. He was an avid bowler and bowled for Rensselaer Senior Bowling and Early Bird Bowling leagues as well as the Sunday Night Monticello Mixed League. He enjoyed dancing with Jean and was a member of Four Season Square Dancing Club. He was an avid reader of non fiction historical books. 

He is survived by daughter, Deb (Jack) McIlrath of Monticello; son, Don (Melanie) Rusk of Rensselaer; five grandchildren and two step grandchildren; ten great grandchildren and three step great grandchildren. 

He is preceded in death by his mother, Blanche (Allee) Rusk Buell and step-father Chester Buell. In addition to his parents and wife, Jean, he was also preceded in death by his siblings, Faye Popplewell, Lavina Randall and James Buell. 

Visitation will be from 11:00 am until the time of service at 1:00 pm Friday January 9, 2026 at Springer-Voorhis-Draper Funeral Home of Monticello with Pastor Tom Dewlin of Medaryville Assembly of God officiating. 

Burial will follow in Roseland Cemetery in Francesville. 

Memorial contributions may be given to the White County Shrine Club OR White County Salvation Army. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. 

Friends and family are encouraged to share a photo, a memory, or messages of condolence at www.springervoorhisdraper.com 

Springer-Voorhis-Draper Funeral Home of Monticello is entrusted with care.