William J. “Bill” Rusen, of Hanover Twp, PA, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, April 12th, 2025. His wife of 22 years is Lisa Anne Kendall.
Bill was born in in Scranton, PA and was predeceased by his parents, William and Sonia Shymansky Rusen, and a step-daughter, Diane Thompson.
A graduate of Marywood University’s Masters in Social Work program, Bill specialized in behavioral health for over four decades, in four states. He taught social work and served as CEO of Cayuga Addiction Recovery Services in Ithaca, NY for almost 20 years.
Bill cared passionately for quality programs that honored the dignity and growth of both clients and employees. He was a former volunteer board member for the Hospicare of Tompkins County, NY and served on the Chamber of Commerce in Ithaca, NY.
An avid Philadelphia sports fan, Bill also enjoyed bowling, gardening, film, history, and travel, especially river cruising with his wife.
In addition to his wife, Bill leaves his son Matthew Rusen and wife Lauren; son John Rusen; daughter Christine Miller and husband Darby; his twin brother Gary Rusen and wife Susan; grandchildren Declan, Jessica, Isa, and Yusuf; Mother-in-law Patricia Kendall-Lloyd; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to any of the following organizations, to whom the family would like to extend their special thanks:
- American Cancer Society AstraZeneca Hope Lodge,110 W. Laurel Ave., Cheltenham, PA 19012
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Jefferson University Hospital, 233 S 10th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
- Hospice of the Sacred Heart, 30 E.D. Preate Drive, Suite 108, Moosic, PA 18507
- Cayuga Addiction Recovery Services, 334 W. State Street, Ithaca, NY 14850
A private memorial service for the family will be held at a later date.
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Laura Beck
A beautiful tribute❤️
Lisa Anne Kendall
Thank you, Laura. He was the universe to me and I miss him terribly.
Lori Ashton
Dear Lisa and family, our condolences to you all. Prayers going up for strength and comfort.
Lisa Anne Kendall
Thank you so much, Lori. We are very grateful for your love and prayers!
Linda Bryce
Dear Lisa, family and friends of Bill,
May you take comfort in the season of Easter, which offers the promise that Bill is healed and whole in the arms of Love. Surely, those arms also hold each of you — through your grief, through your memories and through the coming days.
May peace be with you, now and always.
Lisa Kendall
Thanks so much, Lynda, for all your support as we’ve traveled this road. Much love to you.