Obituary of Richard F. Rusnica

Richard F. Rusnica passed away on January 1, 2024, at the age of 94 years.  

Born in Amsterdam, NY, Richard was the youngest son of Joseph and Veronica Janusz Rusnica. He was pre-deceased by his parents and his five siblings.  

He was educated in Amsterdam schools.  

He married Gloria J. Garnier, and they were together for 45 years until her death in September 2000. He was a member of St. Joseph-St. Michael-Mount Carmel Church in Amsterdam. Richard enlisted in the Army in 1946 and served in Korea as a Heavy Mortar Crewman and Rifleman. He was a World War II era veteran and was honorably discharged in 1948. He then enlisted in the Army Reserves where he served various time periods until his honorable discharge in 1957 with the rank of Corporal.  

Richard worked in the carpet business in several capacities throughout his life, starting at Mohasco Mills, then in sales with the Carl Co., Carbone Carpets, and Montgomery Ward in Menands until his retirement.  

Survivors include six children: Marilyn (Kenneth) Ryba, Richard V. (Jane), Mark (Debbie), Veronica (Dominic) Motyl, John (Linda), and Laurie Rusnica, as well as twelve grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and nieces, nephews, and cousins.  

The family thanks the doctors, nurses, CNAs and all of the staff of Schuyler Ridge (The Eddy) Residential healthcare for the dedicated and loving care of Richard throughout these past several years, especially through the COVID pandemic.  

There will be calling hours from 3 to 4 pm at Betz, Rossi, Bellinger & Stewart Family Funeral Home, 171 Guy Park Ave., Amsterdam, on Wednesday, January 10, 2024. Interment at the Good Shepherd Cemetery family plot will take place at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or to the Alzheimer’s Association.