Lawrence T. "Rusty" Demeules

Lawrence Thomas Demeules, known to many as Rusty, peacefully passed away on Friday, May 26, 2023, at the age of 88 in Estero, Florida. Rusty was born on August 17, 1934, at St. Mary's Hospital in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Heine and Lucie Demeules. He lived a fulfilling life dedicated to his family, his profession, and serving others and his community. Rusty received his education at St. Anne's Catholic School in North Minneapolis for grades 1-8 and completed his high school education at DeLaSalle High School, graduating in June 1953. Following his graduation, Rusty worked as a carpenter for his Brother-In-Law, Frank Budzynski. In June 1954, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and underwent basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. He was then stationed in Okinawa, where he served in a carpenter shop at an Army ammunition depot. Rusty received an honorable discharge in June of 1956. Continuing his education, Rusty attended the University of Minnesota and Mankato State College, focusing on Business Administration for three years. On October 1, 1960, Rusty married Joan B. Frederick from Virginia, Minnesota, and they were blessed with four sons: Robert, William, Joseph, and Richard. Joan passed away from cancer on September 3, 1995. Rusty embarked on his professional career at Link-Belt, initially working at the city desk, before transitioning to Control Data as a sales correspondent. In March of 1966, he joined the family business, Standard Iron & Wire, as a salesperson, primarily developing customers in the off-highway and farm equipment industries. In 1972, Rusty and his brother Dave received the business from their father, Heine. Subsequently, they purchased the stock held by their Uncle J.A. (Chuck) Demeules, and in August of 1986, Rusty bought Dave's shares, becoming the sole owner of Standard Iron. In August of 1996, Rusty retired, passing the company to the third generation of the family. Rusty was a dedicated member of numerous professional, community, and civic organizations throughout his life. His involvement included serving as Chairman of the Board of the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association International from 1986 to 1987, being a part of their Foundation Board of Directors, and receiving the Lifetime Membership Award. Additionally, he established the Rusty Demeules Award for Safety Excellence. Rusty also served as a Scout Master for ten years, contributed to the U.S. Senate Business Advisory Committee, participated in the Hennepin County Bicentennial Committee, and served as the President of the New Hope Lions Club. His contributions extended to the St. Joseph Catholic Church Scholarship Committee, Pelican Sound Florida ARC Committee, Fieldstone Minnesota ARC Committee, and he also was elected as a Supervisor for the River Ridge Community Development District in Florida. On September 14, 1996, Rusty married Mary Beth Dols, and they both found happiness once again. They relocated to Pelican Sound in Estero, Florida in 2000, where they enjoyed their retirement years together. Rusty was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was preceded in death by his wife Joan, his parents Heine and Lucie, his sisters Margret and Patricia Budzynski, and his brothers Fr. Donald and David. Rusty is survived by his loving wife, Mary. His sons Bob Demeules (Marge), Bill Demeules (Julie), Joe Demeules (Jane), Rich Demeules (Suzanne). He is also remembered fondly by Mary’s daughters Catherine Dols (Rob), and Liz Dols (Sean). He also leaves behind eleven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Rusty Demeules will be remembered as a devoted family man, a friend, a respected businessman, and an active community member. His legacy of hard work, dedication, and compassion will continue to inspire all those whose lives he touched. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Michael Catholic Church in St. Michael, Minnesota, on June 26, 2023. The Funeral Mass will begin at 11:00 a.m., preceded by visitation at the Church starting at 10:00 a.m. In memory of Rusty, memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson Association of Southwest Florida, Inc. (parkinsonassociationswfl.org) or the Hope Parkinson Program (hopeparkinson.org). To sign his guest register or to leave online condolences please visit www.ShikanyFuneralHome.com. Arrangements are being handled by Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home Family Owned and Operated Since 1978.

Lawrence T. "Rusty" Demeules

August 17, 1934 - May 26, 2023