James T. Ruswick
June 14, 1949 – May 25, 2023
In his almost 74 years on earth, Jim Ruswick showed his family and friends how to live life to the fullest. He knew each moment matters and made his count.
A loving husband, father, grandfather and collector of friends, his loyalty, generosity and zest for life were apparent in every move he made. Born on June 14, 1949, in Chicago, Illinois, Jim grew up in Wheaton, Illinois. His family moved to Omaha, Nebraska, where he attended Creighton Prep, Creighton University, and the University of Nebraska at Omaha.
An icon of integrity and innovation, Jim worked at Mutual of Omaha for 41 years. He inspired and directed creative teams in projects ranging from creative marketing programs to special events, such as an Egyptian-themed celebration for the Aksarben coronation that attendees remember to this day. His commitment to excellence was primary. Throughout his career, he was the go-to guy for questions about the history of Mutual of Omaha. He knew it all. Jim appreciated beauty, reveling in his art collection, good food and wine and a well-manicured lawn.
He had an extraordinary sense of fun and celebrated Halloween with gusto, once designing vibrant Christmas tree costumes that he and friends wore to dance their way through the Old Market and other neighborhoods.
Some of Jim’s favorite moments included Spring getaways to Scottsdale, Arizona with his beloved wife Mari, Christmas Eve lunches with his children, and visits with his sister Rita in Menlo Park, CA (with side trips to Carmel and Nepenthe in Big Sur). Jim and Mari traveled to Japan as part of Omaha’s Sister City delegation and visited various European cities.
Most of all, Jim cherished his family and friends. And the feeling was mutual. He was their hero. It’s going to be hard to imagine holidays, special events and day-to-day living without Jim’s love and laughter.
Jim is survived by his wife Mari Petersen; children Brent Ruswick (Laura Simon), Jannelle Ruswick (Nate Bartley), Greg Ruswick (Allison); granddaughters Hanna Bartley and Simone Ruswick; sister Rita Allison; and cousins Mary Jo and Fred Petersen. He is preceded in death by his parents, Genevieve M. and Willard G. Ruswick; his parents-in-law, Helen M. and Ernest A. Petersen; and his brother in-law, Grant Allison.
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VISITATION: Tuesday, June 6th from 5pm to 7pm at the West Center Chapel. MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: Wednesday, June 7th at 10am at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, 15353 Pacific. Private Interment: Calvary Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to The James T. Ruswick and Mari L. Petersen Scholarship Fund at Creighton Prep, or Mercy High School. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
To view live broadcasts of the Vigil Service and Mass, please visit www.heafeyheafey.com and click the “View Live Cast” button at the top of the home page.
7 Comments
Mari
I am so sorry for your loss Mari. I not only had the pleasure of having Jim as a customer, I also considered Jim a friend. I always enjoying visiting with you and Jim over the years and assisting you with your car purchases. Please let me know if you need anything.
Jeff Bahnsen
It was always fun when Jim was in the room – he knew how to keep life interesting. My condolences to Mari and family on the loss of this one-of-a-kind personality.
Will be thinking of all in your family – and the large number of Old Market, Mutual of Omaha and Creighton Prep friends and acquaintances that Jim’s life has touched over so many years. Always enjoyed visiting with him at the annual Rockbrook Village Art Fair. May the memories sustain you.
Mari, I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Jim. I enjoyed working with him so much and having a morning cup of coffee in his office. We sure had some great laughs together! You are in my prayers during this time of sorrow, and please know I am hear if you need anyone to talk to. This is a big life adjustment and you will have good days and bad days, but you will be happy again with time.
I worked with Jim for over 20 years. Many know that I drove him crazy. He didn’t realize that he was one of my two mentors forcing me to learn and grow(up).
Jim was creative, talented, and patient and supported me in many ways.
I am forever grateful that he was part of my life.
– – Charlie Cogar
Louisiana, Missouri
I really knew Jim as Rita’s younger brother
This takes us back to high school days.
My thoughts to all. May dear memories fill all of your hearts. Special greetings and condolences to Rita.
Mari, I am so saddened to hear of Jim’s passing. I so enjoyed meeting the two of you at the Stinson Park concerts, and looked forward to seeing you there ever since. It was apparent that you two were wonderful people as soon as I met you. Jim had such a warm smile and welcoming personality. I love that I brought a smile to his face with such a small gesture as giving him the Solar party lights! I will remember him and you every time I use mine. I love your spirit! I am here for you any time!❤️
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