Richard Rushton

Deke (Richard) Arthur Rushton Richard Arthur Rushton, known as Deke to most, was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, but grew up in St Paul, Minnesota. He attended Cretin Military High School in St Paul, held a degree in Theater Arts from the University of Minnesota and radio broadcasting school in Minneapolis. During his life, Deke had many lifestyles and jobs. Hippie, Biker, Cowboy, Actor, Musician. To his family, however, he was brother, “Pop”, and Grandpa. When asked how he could change lifestyles so easily, he replied to his children, “Never hold yourself to one lifestyle, they are all great!” His favorite job was as the school bus driver. He loved to drive the mountains of Colorado , especially with the kindergarteners. Many of the kids in town will remember this giant tattooed driver with the long hair, who as scary as he seemed, was super kind and caring. Deke was a true entertainer. From his days in radio school, to playing the Music Man and other productions here in Salida, or even just telling, or retelling an entertaining story over beers with his friends, he loved to entertain. His favorite passion, however, was his music. Who can forget him playing the blues harp with The Lazy Aliens or Lil’ Ernie and the Big Thang. He loved making music with his friends but even more he loved performing for a crowd. His last performance was The Last Waltz at the Steam Plant in November last year where he played his harmonica and sang. The show must go on. Deke is survived by his beloved wife of 19 years, Sue Rushton, his sons Jesse Rushton of Northfield, Minnesota, Kelly Rushton of Denver, Colorado and Dustin Rushton of Salida, Colorado, his grandchildren, Sklyer Roche, Harvey Richard Rushton and Isiah and Josh Sparkman, his brother Michael Rushton of Duluth, Minnesota, sister Jane Rushton of Venice, Italy, nephew Michael Stoffel of St Croix Falls, Wisconsin, and Patricia Woodman, mother of Kelly and Dustin. In lieu of a formal memorial, the family is planning a Day of Celebration at Hutchinson Ranch Sept 26, from 2-7. so as to keep the crowds spaced out. Please wear a mask and adhere to social distancing. If you have any photos of Deke that you can share with the family, please bring them to be scanned and returned. In lieu of flowers, Donations can be made a charity which Deke thought was especially inspiring, Rok Skool, at 1239 D Street. Checks can be made out to either the Mixing Desk or Bare-Bones Productions. On line condolences may be sent to the family at lewisandglenn.com. Arrangements are with Lewis and Glenn Funeral Home.

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