Russell “Rusty” Oldenburg

February 9, 1962 – December 1, 2023

         Russell “Rusty” Oldenburg, 61 of St. Augustine, Florida passed away peacefully with his wife and children by his side December 1, 2023. Rusty was born February 9, 1962, to Suzan Walker and Frederick Oldenburg (both deceased) in Ludlow, Massachusetts. From a young age Rusty had a larger-than-life way about him and was an incredibly hard worker. Rusty loved his grandparents, parents, sisters, and he held fond memories of his childhood. Rusty played hockey in his youth and graduated from Ludlow High School in 1980. Upon his completion of high school, Rusty made his career in the autobody business. He worked for Rick’s Autobody among others and was certified with Sherwin Williams. He enjoyed what he did and made countless friendships over the years. 

            Rusty changed his entire life to move to St. Augustine where he started his new life and family and made new friendships in the St. Augustine community. Rusty was a member of the Cathedral Basilica, Knights of Columbus #611, and volunteered at the Cathedral festival which had a special place in his heart. Rusty lived by a moral compass and taught his family to always think of others. Through the years Rusty endured countless pain and suffering but was selfless and met it head on with such courageousness. His passion for his family was remarkable. He will always be remembered as the “Marathon Man”. 

            Rusty was a wonderful husband for twenty-one years and a devoted and loving father to Russell and Cecilia. He lived for his children and was proud of the time he had with them. Rusty lived with faith, passion, and inspiration. Rusty always had stories that involved friends and Portuguese food. He went out of his way to include everyone in everything. While he leaves so many cherished loved ones behind, we are better for it and will live through his spirit. To quote Rusty’s lifelong best friend, John Hurst, “Rusty rode the merry-go-round of life. Grabbing the brass rings that you try to grab as you go around. The goal being to stay on as long as possible and grab as many rings as you possibly can. Rusty rode that ride as long as possible grabbing hundreds of rings. The rings were not baubles or shiny trinkets, but rather each and every one of us. I think when it comes to his ride through life, Rusty nailed it!”. 

            Rusty is survived by his devoted wife Ann Marie, son Russell Jr, daughter Cecilia. Sisters Donna (Phil) McKay, Laurie (John) Marlow, and Paula Oldenburg Conner and many nieces and nephews. 

Vigil December 19th 5 pm – 8 pm

Craig Funeral Home 

1475 Old Dixie Highway St Augustine, FL 32084

Memorial Mass December 20th   10am 

Cathedral Basilica of St Augustine 

38 Cathedral Place. St Augustine, FL 32084

In lieu of flowers, donations are gratefully accepted to the family at: https://posthope.org/rustyoldenburg.