James S. 'JR' Rusnak, 56

James S. "JR" Rusnak, 56, of Kalispell, passed away Jan. 21, 2009, in Kalispell. He was born March 11, 1952, in Gary, Ind., and was also raised in Gary.

He attended school at Andrean High School in Merrillville, Ind., and then Indiana State University in Terre Haute, Ind.

His work history included occupations as an emergency medical technician and fireman in Gary, owner of Lundy's Landing Restaurant in Bozeman, salesman in Helena, Denver, Kalispell and Missoula, and a fishing captain and guide in Marco Island, Fla.

James had several hobbies and interests. He was an expert skier and ski racer, an avid golfer, a great swimmer and diver, a mountain climber, a fishing guide and an all-around outdoorsman.

James was preceded in death by his father, Michael Rusnak; and his mother, Patricia Rusnak.

He is survived by his sons, Jim Rusnak of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Stephen Rusnak of Valparaiso, Ind.; brother and sister-in-law, Michael and Sue Rusnak, of Carmel, Ind., and brother, Terry Rusnak, of Carmel; uncles, Terry O'Neill and James O'Neill; nephews, Michael P. Rusnak, Connor Rusnak, and Quinn Rusnak; and nieces, Katy Rusnak and Colleen Rusnak.

A memorial service was held Jan. 23 at Moose's Saloon in Kalispell.