Charles Richard Ruschill, 87, of Denmark, died Saturday, October 25, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics in Iowa City, surrounded by his loving family.
Born August 6, 1938, in Burlington, he was the son of Frank Walter and Viola May Huppenberger Ruschill. On December 30, 1956, he married Joan Catherine Jones in Denmark.
He was a 1956 graduate of Denmark Academy High School.
Charlie worked for A.E.C./Iowa Army Ammunition Plant for 44 years, retiring as the mechanical supervisor.
Charlie was a proud member of West Point Presbyterian Church, where he served as an elder and sometimes stepped up to preach. He was deeply involved in the Denmark community, giving his time and heart wherever it was needed. From his 40 plus years on the Denmark Fire Department, where he served as assistant chief and later on the Denmark Fire Association Board, to his work on the Denmark Township Trustee Board. Charlie was always looking for ways to make a difference. He helped establish the Civil Defense Program (now defunct) and Heritage Days, which has become a special part of the community.
Charlie had a knack for fixing just about anything you put in front of him. That talent led him to open his own TV repair business and he could often be found tinkering at home or helping family with projects. He loved visiting his family’s farm outside of West Point, where he grew up, and it always brought back fond memories. More than anything, though, Charlie loved spending time with his family and spoiling his grandchildren, something that brought him the greatest joy.
Survivors include his wife, Joan Ruschill of Denmark; three daughters, Pamela (Bill) Hoenig of Denmark, Paula (Kevin) Nolte of Denmark, and Niki (Tony) Waterman of West Point; four grandchildren, Kaitlin (Nick) Wilson, Cullen (Angelica) Hoenig, Chris Hoenig, and Nick (Dezeray) Nolte; four great-grandchildren, Markey Jo Hoenig, Cainen Hoenig, Sophie Wilson, and Scotlyn Hoenig; nephew, Steve (Lynne) Ruschill and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brother and sister-in-law, Frank and Alice Ruschill and great-granddaughter, Abigail Faith Hoenig.
Cremation has been entrusted to the care of Prugh Crematory.
A celebration of life for Charlie at 1 p.m., Saturday, November 22, 2025, in the community room at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street. Burial will be held in Denmark Cemetery at a later date.
A memorial has been established for the Denmark Fire and Rescue Department.