In Loving Memory of Rusty Thompson
“The three most important things in my life, in order, are Faith, Family, and being a Fightin’ Texas Aggie.” -Rusty Thompson ‘85
Over the past couple of weeks, you have probably seen the overwhelming support for this incredible man. It is evident now, after his passing, truly the impact this one Aggie had on so many others.
Rusty Thompson, beloved Director of Student Activities at Texas A&M, passed away Saturday evening on March 12th, 2016 after a week-long battle at the Houston Medical Center. Rusty suffered from a heart attack on March 4th while grilling food for his co-workers and staff at a daytime yell practice and barbeque.
Rusty was a loud and proud member of the class of 1985 as well as Squadron Five (The Filthy Fifth! The best damn outfit anywhere!) in the Corps of Cadets. He was a faithful and loving husband, father, brother, son, and loyal friend to so many people.
A constant presence around Koldus, Rusty was a man who absolutely loved his job and loved to work with students. He would often say, “Don’t ever think what we get to do is normal.” He lived his everyday life with the zeal and passion that embodied this quote.
He touched thousands of lives during his 53 years on earth. The outpour of love and support shown over the past week has been a testament to that.
Rusty held many roles working with students at Texas A&M, including advisor to Aggie Bonfire, where he guided the university through one of its darkest times after the stack collapsed in 1999. Rusty was also the advisor for the Aggie Yell Leaders, Class Councils, the Aggie Wranglers, Muster, Fish Camp—for which he was a namesake in both 1995 and 2015—and several other student organizations. He treasured the relationship he had with every student he met through these roles. Not only did he change the lives of the students he directly came into contact with, he also went out of his way to befriend and support every student, Aggie, and person he interacted with. It was through Rusty’s leadership that The Mugdown was able to grow and succeed as a student organization– we are proud to call him among our first fans.
Rusty Thompson, the Aggie family is privileged to know you.
“Softly call the Muster
Let comrade answer, “Here”
Their spirits hover round us,
As if to bring us cheer.
Mark them “present” in our hearts,
We’ll meet some other day.
There is no Death, but Life Eterne
For old friends such as they.”
Here.
–Mugdown Staff
Join with the family and friends of Rusty Thompson on Monday, March 21 at 7 PM in Rudder Auditorium for a celebration of his life and legacy.
The service will include musical pieces, personal testimonials, video tributes, and a photo slideshow. Following the service will be a small reception in the Rudder Exhibit Hall where a display will be setup to highlight the incredible life of Rusty Thompson.
