Mayford “Buster” John Rust passed away on Friday, Nov. 10, 2023, at the Minnesota Veterans Home in Luverne, Minnesota, at the age of 95.
Buster was born on Feb. 25, 1928, to John and Nora (Hagen) Rust in Luverne. He began his education while living in Luverne. His family moved to Lake Wilson, Minnesota, where they farmed and Buster attended country school. The family then moved to Brandt, South Dakota, where they continued to farm and Buster graduated eighth grade from country school. Later in his youth the family moved to Hardwick, Minnesota.
On March 15, 1946, Buster enlisted into the United States Navy. He earned the rank of Seaman First Class during his time in the service while stationed in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and San Diego, California. On Dec. 20, 1947, he received his honorable discharge from the service and returned home to the Luverne area.
On June 15, 1948, Buster was united in marriage to LaVonne Stubbe in Luverne where they then resided. He was employed at A.R. Wood Manufacturing for 34 years in sales and customer service. He also worked with Gerald Johnson Plastering and Drywall and Smith Furniture.
Buster was a member of the United Methodist Church in Luverne. Throughout his life he enjoyed buying and restoring automobiles to then later resell. He remained active after retirement by volunteering at church and within the community. His favorite “job” was running parts for the Luverne Body Shop, which he did into his early 90s. The friends he made there were some of his most special ones.
Buster was preceded in death by his beloved wife, LaVonne; parents, John and Nora; and his sister, Louise.
He is survived by four daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
There will be a private graveside committal at Maplewood Cemetery in Luverne.
Condolences may be sent to Hartquist Funeral Home in Luverne in care of his family.