Cliff D. Rust

Cliff D. Rust, 86, of Topeka, KS, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at the Midland Hospice House.

He was born April 25, 1939, in Holdrege, NE, the son of Guy L. and Blanche B. (Bush) Rust. On February 16, 1962, Cliff married the love of his life, Jerilynn Johansen. Together they shared 62 wonderful years of marriage until Jerilynn’s passing on October 4, 2024.

Growing up in rural Nebraska, Cliff embraced the joy of simple living and adventure. A gifted athlete, he excelled in six-man football, basketball, and track. After high school, he pursued barber school in Oklahoma City, graduating in 1958. His lifelong calling as a barber led him to Topeka, where he eventually opened South City Barbers. For more than 68 years, 50 of them as owner, Cliff, also known as “Red” by his customers, welcomed generations of families to his chair. Known for his gentle nature, warm smile, and a story or joke always ready to share, he became more than a barber, he was a friend and confidant to many.

Faith and family were the foundation of Cliff’s life. He and Jerilynn were charter members of Wanamaker Woods Church of the Nazarene, where Cliff faithfully ushered and taught Sunday School. His daily routine reflected his bible devotion: toast, apple juice, and time in God’s Word. He cherished family game nights filled with Rook and Spades, trips to Branson with Jerilynn, and the joy of Southern Gospel music. Nothing brought him more happiness than being with his wife, daughters, and grandchildren, whether cheering at their activities, bowling, playing putt-putt, or capturing every moment with his VCR and cassette recordings. A loyal fan of the Chiefs, Royals, and Jayhawks, Cliff’s enthusiasm for life was infectious.

Above all, Cliff will be remembered for his unwavering love, his faith, and the kindness he shared so freely. Though we mourn his passing, we take comfort knowing he is reunited with Jerilynn and resting in the arms of his Savior.

He is survived by his daughters, Melody Bruner, and Melissa Weaverling and her husband, Kurt; his grandchildren, Josh Bruner and Savanah Weaverling and her fiancé, Brandon McPhail; his brother, Ted Rust and his wife, Jan; and his sister-in-law, Marilyn Rust.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; granddaughter, Amanda Olinger; son-in-law, Richard Bruner; and brother, Tony Rust.

Memorial visitation will be held from 9-11:00 A.M., on Saturday, September 6, 2025, followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 11:00 A.M., at Wanamaker Woods Church of the Nazarene, 3501 SW Wanamaker Rd., Topeka, KS 66614.

Memorial contributions can be made in Cliff’s memory to Midland Hospice Care. Contributions can be mailed or left with the funeral home.

To share a memory or to leave condolences, please visit, www.brennanmathenafh.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.