Barry Leonard Rusche

Barry Leonard Rusche, 67, Portland, Texas, formerly of Woodstock, died May 5, 2013, with his family at his side.

He was born June 24, 1946, in Chicago to Frank Rusche (June) and Roberta Bennett. 

He graduated from Woodstock High School and proudly wore his letter jacket until the end. 

He received an associates degree from St. Petersburg Junior College, Florida, in 1970 and went to work for State Farm Insurance. Eventually, he became agency manager. He was known as the “Famous Insurance Guy.”

During his tenure at State Farm, he won numerous awards and was asked to develop and publish essential training materials. After spending many years with State Farm, he decided to become an independent insurance agent and sold insurance the rest of his life. 

He loved meeting people and could start up a conversation with anyone. He explored other professions such as becoming a hypnotist and furniture store owner/salesman/delivery man but always went back to selling insurance.

He was described as the “nicest person in America” and will be missed by all who knew him. 

Survivors include two sons, William (Bridget) Rusche and Britt (Andrea) Rusche; two daughters, Stephani Rusche and Sommer (Zeb) Mendiola Rusche; two brothers, Robert Rusche and Michael Waylen; a sister, Sharon Rusche; and four grandchildren, Bailey Basso, Isabella Rusche, Jude Thuringer and Harlo Hastings. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, Dr. Elizabeth Jamieson, and a brother, William Francis Rusche. Inurnment was private.

Services  and a celebration of his life will be held in Woodstock at a later date. To receive an email about the celebration, email Bridget at BBSportage@yahoo.com.