RUSTIN, Francis

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona - 11/23/2004 Francis Rustin, 72, died Nov.17, 2004 in Whiteriver. He was born and raised in Whiteriver. He was a member of the White Mountain Apache Tribe. Francis attended the Ft. Apache Boarding School through the 8th grade. He worked for Southwest Forest Industries in McNary for many years as a green chain puller until the mill closed. He later worded as a grounds keeper for the White Mountain Apache Tribe and as a service station attendant at the old Indian Pine (now Hondah). Francis served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. During his service he was stationed in Germany for about 4 years and while there he learned to speak fluent German. As a member of the American Legion his peers called him "Comrade". Francis was a happy man and he enjoyed serving the American Legion and marching in the parades and anything else he was asked to do. Francis was always active in his church. He taught Sunday School and taught his children to love the Lord. Francis is survived by one son, Lincoln (Annie) Rustin of North Fork; two daughters, Carol R. Truax of McNary and Colleen Rustin of Diamond Creek; two brothers, Otto Rustin of Bylas and Shawnie Rustin of Whiteriver; two sisters, Flossie Colelay of Whiteriver and Shirley Titla of Baylas; aunt, Della Zahgotah of Whiteriver; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. A wake was held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 20 at the family home in North Fork, with funeral services held at 10 a.m. Monday Nov. 22 at the White Mountain Apache Baptist Church with burial in the Golden Gorge View Cemetery. Owens Mortuary of Show Low handled arrangements. To send private condolences or to sign an online guest book visit http://www.owensmortuary.com.