Russel “Rusty” Raisland, 63 went to explore the outdoors of heaven on November 12, 2013. Rusty was born on June 18, 1950 to Selmer and Ruby Raisland in Livingston, Montana. He graduated from Sweetgrass High School in Big Timber. Rusty worked various jobs before going to work for Continental Lime, now Graymont, where he has worked the past 28 years. Rusty married Teresa Tripp June 23, 1979 in Polson, Montana. Rusty and Teresa were examples of what true couples are, always providing the other with love, respect, encouragement and support.
Rusty was a true outdoors man and loved to be hiking, hunting, four-wheeling fishing, running or sharing its beauty with others. Rusty was also very involved with the community, he served on city council for 10 years, was the “unofficial “ cross country coach all the years Teresa coached the teams, was always there to support church and community activities. He found much enjoyment helping others.
Rusty is preceded in death by his parents, Selmer and Ruby Raisland. He is survived by his wife, Teresa, Townsend; daughter Terri (Daniel) Mosher of Spokane. His sisters Fran Elgen, Big Timber; and Linda and Bob Davis, Townsend; brother, Larry (Linda) Raisland, Townsend. He is also survived by three grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.
The family would like to express their gratitude to the entire ICU staff at Benefis Hospital in Great Falls for their extraordinary care and compassion as well as to all the family a and friends who have been so supportive during this process.
A Memorial service is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. Saturday, November 16, 2013 at the Broadwater High School Gymnasium 201 North Spruce St, Townsend, Mt 59644. A reception will immediately follow the memorial service in the lunch room of the Broadwater High School. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested in Rusty’s name to donor’s choice. To offer a condolence to the family please visit www.stevensonwilke.com
Greg & Kelly Hohn says
Family & friends of Rusty, we are so sorry for your loss. And we are praying that you are surrounded with God’s comforting love and His peace and hope today. It was a pleasure knowing Rusty in the time I got to know him.
Rosie & Mike Holsten says
Dear Linda and Family,
Mike and I are so sorry to hear about Rusty. May God give you peace at this time.
Love,
Mike and Rosie Holsten
Renea Howard says
So sorry to hear about Rusty. Thoughts and prayers are with the family
Grace & Charlie Gilmore says
Theresa,
Charlie and I are so sorry to hear about Rusty. We have you and your family in our prayers.
Keith and Robin Kirscher says
Dear Theresa, Bob and Linda, Larry and Linda, Fran, and all the extended family,
Words cannot express the sorrow we feel for all of you at this time. Rusty was such an inspiring member of our community. What he and Theresa did for our girls while they were running cross country went far beyond coaching. We were very honored to call Rusty our friend.
Know that our thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you. We will always remember Rusty with a smile. Heaven as truly gained an amazing angel.
Clayton and Sheryl McElravy says
Dear Teresa and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Rusty was a good friend and will be missed by all. Sorry we can’t be there on Saturday but will be thinking of you all.
Erin & Brad Cobban says
Dear Teresa and Family,
We are so sorry to hear about Rusty’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Praying that in time your hearts will be healed.
Erin(Long) and Brad Cobban
Cathy Sampson Roggia and Della Cook says
Teresa, on behalf of my mother and myself, our thoughts and prayers are with you and yours. May God bless you and comfort you.
Love, Della and Cathy
Janice and Ralph Goode says
Teresa and Family you are all in thoughts and prayer. We only meet Rusty a few times, we really enjoy our visits. Our thoughts will be with in the coming weeks.
Bart & Patricia Toney says
Dear Rusty’s Family,
May God hold each of you in his hands in the days to come! Rusty was such a special friend!
Always encouraging with a smile, always busy helping someone during his time here on earth. He has set such a great example to our children! The wonderful memories will keep your hearts warm with love.
Love Bart & Trish