James Edward Rushing

March 10, 1933 – April 12, 2021

James Edward Rushing passed away April 12th, 2021 at Kindred Hospital in Albuquerque, NM surrounded by his family. Jim was born in Chicago, Illinois, on March 10, 1933, and spent his first 50 years living and working in the Chicago area.

Jim was an athlete growing up playing football and wrestling through his college years, finishing his BA in Business at Miami of Ohio University. From there Jim served two years in the Marines stationed near San Diego, CA.

Jim built a deep history of volunteering for a variety of causes. He coached youth hockey for 20 years in Northbrook Illinois, including Glenbrook North High School Varsity Hockey. Jim was also a dedicated referee and was inducted into the Illinois Hockey Hall of Fame in recognition of his outstanding refereeing contributions. He consistently led with sportsmanship, kindness, and generosity.

Jim was a businessman working as a VP of Data and Operations for most of his career. In 2005 Jim and his wife Nancy moved to Socorro, NM building a house upon Highland Estates. Jim was dedicated to the Rotary Club in Socorro, NM and enjoyed working on the Rotary fundraiser calendar for many years, just finishing up 2021 shortly before his death.

Jim was an expert at Words With Friends and loved crossword puzzles, bridge and board games.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, the late Helen and Jack Rushing and his brother Richard “Bud” Rushing.

Jim is survived by his wife of 36 years, Nancy, and his children Karen (Tim) Brown, Scott Rushing, Tom (Kathleen) Rushing, Steve (Sue Mago) Rushing, Kate (Jim) Mutchnik and Kate (Adam Barker) Richards, his sister Wendy (Steve) Denton and his brother Paul Rifenberg. Loving grandfather to 12 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

He worked hard. He made friends easily. There was no mistaking his presence with his generous laugh and big smile. He was strong to the very end. Jim will be so very missed by everyone who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, please kindly consider a donation to the Socorro Rotary Club Foundation, PO Box 972, Socorro NM 87801

El Defensor Chieftain