Russell Linn (Rusty) Shumaker

Russell (Rusty) Linn Shumaker, 54, passed away recently in his home in Santa Fe. He is preceded in death by his father, Herbert Eldon Shumaker, along with his paternal grandparents, Bid and Ruth Shumaker; maternal grandparents, Edwin and Gladys Bjerke; and his fur children, Belle and Shania. He is survived by his mother, Gloria Stephens and step-father Mitch Stephens; siblings, Alan Shumaker and wife Nancy, John Stephens and wife Jenn, Kelly Stephens and partner Elisa Kase; niece and nephew, Michelle Stephens and Bronson Stephens; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends; and his very dear friend, Rochelle Follmer. Rusty will be remembered as a tower of strength, the fierce protector of those he loved, and a force to be reckoned with; yet was also kind, gentle and charming. He was talented, artistic (many years of one of a kind tile masterpieces), funny and smart, and he had a special love of animals. He also cared about the environment, participating in countless clean-up and anti-graffiti campaigns in the cities that he lived in. Rusty was an avid skier, hiker, and camper and loved to travel. He was also a devoted Rugby fan, both as a player and spectator. Rusty could always be counted on to help make things better, be it a monstrous bear hug, a kind word, or an impromptu inappropriate joke. He was, most importantly, the giant heart of his family. He was our real-life super hero, and he will be sorely missed. A simple wake will be held for family and friends on Saturday, June 13, 2015, beginning at 1:00 p.m., at the residence of Kelly Stephens. You may contact FRENCH - Wyoming for the address. FRENCH - Wyoming 7121 Wyoming Blvd. NE (505) 823-9400