CENTRALIA — Paul Andrew Rusiewski, 52, of Centralia, passed away unexpectedly at home on Sunday, June 9, 2024, with his devoted dog, Tank, by his side.
He was born July 3, 1971 in Centralia to Yvonne Marie Yusko Rusiewski. She preceded him in death on June 29, 2010. He was also preceded in death by his grandparents, Joe and Mamie Yusko, and other family members.
Paul is survived by two very special Aunts – Cecilia Miller and Geraldine Lear, and several other Aunts, Uncles and Cousins. Most of all, he is survived by so many friends that were his FAMILY in Centralia and the surrounding area. Most notably Morgan Nichols, Steve Prather, the Alli brothers – Billy, Jason, and Matt and neighbor, Ed Dodson.
Paul attended St. Mary Catholic School and was a member of the graduating Class of 1989 from Centralia High School. He was active in many sports but, football was his favorite. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army. After his time in the Army, he graduated from Kaskaskia College with a degree in Respiratory Therapy. He had been employed by SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Mt. Vernon for many years and at the time of his passing.
Paul was a man of many interests and talents. He was a member of the Centralia Elk’s Lodge 493 and served as the Grand Exalted Ruler and the executive board for many years. He enjoyed grilling any and all kinds of meat. He took great pride in his backyard vegetable garden. He will rest in peace next to his mother and was greeted by his faithful friend, Stryker, on his passing. Paul was an avid fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, Green Bay Packers, and Notre Dame.
Cremation Rites will be accorded and a Celebration of Life will be held Friday, June 21, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia. A Private Family Burial will be held at a later date at St. John’s Catholic Cemetery in West Frankfort, Illinois. In honor of Paul and as he often did, please offer an act of kindness to someone in need. Also the next time you have a drink, salute him with a toast! Per the family’s request, St. Louis Cardinals, Green Bay Packers, Notre Dame, camo and shorts are all appropriate attire for Paul’s last get together! Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home at 235 North Sycamore Street Centralia, Illinois 62801, (618)532-3523, are honored to be of service to Paul’s Family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com.