Yvonne Rusin

May 9th, 1929 - October 16th, 2013

Yvonne's Memory Wall

We encourage you to share your most beloved memories of Yvonne here, so that the family and other loved ones can always see it. Share your favorite stories or comment on those shared by others.

So first, a confession. I helped myself to cookies sometimes at Vonnie's before they were offered to me while my sister was in her piano lesson. AND I know I wasn't the only one! Thanks for baking Vonnie.

What a warm and loving woman Vonnie was to me my whole life. She was a patient piano teacher unlike my sister:), a wonderful role model to the many of us who grew up surrounded by her and all the amazing First Baptist women, and one of the most cheerful, full of life people I have known. The Vonnie's of the world are people that I so wish could stay with us forever to remind us how to love everyone with an amazing open heart. I will try to carry this with me always.

Sally Newton

I'll second Sally's cooking stealing confession - especially the Santa Claus ones - who could resist those. I will remember so many things about Vonnie - she was really a model for what it means to live with love. When I was in the Peace Corps far away from my family for two years, Vonnie was one of my most devoted penpals, always catching me up on news about her family and what was happening at FBC and in SH. Probably the thing I'll miss most is her singing of "O Holy Night" on Christmas eve - this was such a special tradition for our church family and there was never a dry eye in the house when she finished...thanks, Vonnie, you taught us so much - we'll think of you often :)

Jill Newton

Dear Joe And Rhonda,

I was shocked to hear that your mother left her body to go be with the LORD. She and Zyg were a wonderful couple and I have many fond memories of them. They are part of my earliest childhood memories. I remember going to Sunday School and church and always seeing them there; Rhonda too. They were close to my family and it was as if they were a uncle and aunt. I know your faith will get you through this, but still it hurts to loose a loved one.

Bill Mills

William Mills

To be around Vonnie and/or Zyg was like being around a Sea of Joy -abounding with smiles , positive attitudes , and a brightening of one's day. We met both soon after moving to South Haven in 1954.Remember well Vonnie's patience and expertise in working with those of us who were musically challenged in the choir ; also Zyg's efforts to make me a skilled fisherman , which abruptly ended on my first ice fishing experience.
While in South Haven last month, Ginny was fortunate enough to run into Vonnie twice. How thrilled she was to see and talk to her before she left this life. Zyg and she have a lasting legacy to family and friends .

Maury and Ginny Carroll

What a wonderful choir director, piano player and usually doing both at the same time - remember the beautiful Christmas cantata "Miracle of Christmas" we did one year - such special memories of a good friend and lovely person. We did so much together - friendly workers, BYKOTA, traveling, and camping - she was one of a kind! I will miss her smiling face on Sunday morning... She loved her family and I know you will all miss her so much - your family is in my prayers.

Roberta Newton

When I think of Vonnie, I can't help but smile. I can hear her happy giggle and see her eyes sparkle as they did when she spoke of her Dear Husband. I will never forget the wild golf cart ride through the beautiful woods as she shared such precious stories of her family and the fun they had there.

Such a gem, and her legacy is one of joy, love for family, and a strong faith. She is unforgettable!

May her family be comforted as they recall wonderful memories!

Kathy Wagaman

Our family was saddened by the news of Vonnie's passing, but confident she is now in the arms of the Lord, and surrounded by many who love her and have arrived earlier in Heaven. Vonnie was my mother's best friend for 55 years and I'm certain Kathy Parsons is praying for all the family in this time of grieving. I express my deepest condolences, and also praying for strength and peace for the family. Vonnie was like a second mother or a supportive aunt for me in my youth, and she will be missed.

Bill Parsons, Jr

Dear Rusin Family,
I'm sorry for your loss. I know I don't have to tell you what a special lady Vonnie was. I'm going to miss that smile and those cheerful emails that kept me updated on what was happening in the family. She was so proud of you all. She taught me a lot about faith, family, and life--not to mention a few baking secrets! I will especially cherish the memory of one Christmas Eve with Vonnie at the piano surrounded by her family. I look forward to the day when you will all be reunited again. May you be comforted with God's love and all the special memories of Vonnie.