DERBY — Mary Lou Rusco passed away peacefully on Sept. 24, 2025. She was born in Great Bend, Kan. to Merle E. and Esther F. Sibert on Jan. 1, 1949.

In 1969, Mary Lou married the love of her life, Steve Rusco, also in Great Bend. Together they built a beautiful life and marriage that lasted 54 years until Steve’s passing.

Mary Lou will be remembered for her quiet kindness and the thoughtful way she cared for others. She had her own way of seeing the world and a gentle humor that left an impression on everyone she met. She deeply admired the successes of those around her and found joy in praising the accomplishments of her family, friends, and beloved church community. A true animal lover, she devoted much of her time to caring for cats at what she fondly called her “cat ranch.”

She was preceded in death by her parents, Merle and Esther Sibert, and her husband, Steve Rusco. Mary Lou is survived by her children, Doug Rusco (Sheila), Michael Rusco, and Vanessa Rusco (Kimberly); grandchildren, Jacob, Kylie, Clara, and Sasha Rusco; and great-grandchild Aria Rusco. She is also survived by siblings-in-law Clark Rusco (Donna), Carolyn Oborny (John), and Rhonda Eurich, along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews who loved her deeply.

Mary Lou’s life was guided by faith and kindness. She found joy in helping at her church and deeply loved the friends and family who surrounded her.

Memorial Service will be held at 10 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025, at Risen Savior Lutheran Church, 6770 E 34th St N, Wichita, KS 67226. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Kansas Humane Society.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Smith Family Mortuary

1415 North Rock Road

Derby, KS  67037

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Oct. 4, 2025