Obituary of Rusty Anthony Fleischman

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Rusty Anthony Fleischman was born on May 19, 1976 in Boise, Idaho to the proud parents of Dale and Linda Fleischman. Rusty grew up in Boise with his two younger sisters, Amy and Megan. He attended school in Boise, and especially loved his time at Borah High School, where he graduated from the first STEP program in 1997. 

After graduation, Rusty began attending adult day programs at both Tomorrow’s Hope and Diamond Developmental Center, where he thrived. He enjoyed community outings and classroom activities, and specifically looked forward to Monday each week. He attended these programs for many years and made lasting friendships with staff and classmates. 

Rusty was a kind and gentle person, who loved spending time with family and friends. He had an insatiable love for the Oregon Coast, where he was fortunate enough to visit yearly with his family. He enjoyed hunting for rocks, walking on the beach and watching the waves crash on the shore. The simplest pleasures, like listening to Mix106 Radio on his headphones, eating pepperoni pizza, or spending a long weekend in Buhl at his Grandma’s house, brought great joy to Rusty. 

At the age of nine Rusty joined the Boise Community Stars Special Olympics team. He proudly participated and medaled in Track and Field, Bowling, Bocce Ball and Snowshoeing. One of his parent’s fondest memories occurred when Rusty was only ten years old. During a 50-yard race, a fellow athlete tripped and fell. Rusty stopped mid-race to help him to his feet. They crossed the finish line with their arms around each other while the crowd cheered. It was the perfect display of Rusty’s indomitable spirit, which continually inspired his family and friends to persevere through life’s challenges.

Rusty passed away peacefully on August 15, 2021. His ability to light up a room, infectious smile and silly laugh, which occasionally surfaced at the most inopportune time, will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Rusty joins his grandparents Roy and Martha Fleischman and Richard and Edith Kaster; great-aunt Florence Lloyd; uncle Craig Kaster; and cousin Cassie Juker Thomas in heaven.

Rusty leaves behind his parents Dale and Linda; sisters Amy and Megan (Clinton); and many aunts, uncles and cousins. 

Rusty’s family is especially grateful to the many staff at Saint Alphonsus for the compassionate care provided to Rusty.