Rusty Milne Macomb County MI Obituary, Death: It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Russell Paul Milne, affectionately known as Rusty, who left us on April 9, 2025, at the age of 50. A beloved figure in Macomb County, MI, Russell was not only the proud owner of Russ Milne Ford, Inc. but also a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend.
Born to Russell G. and Patricia Milne, Rusty was raised in a loving and supportive family that instilled in him the values of hard work, loyalty, and kindness. He was cherished as a son and found immense joy in his relationships with his siblings: Heidi (John) Helfen, Patty (Craig) Engebretson, and Thomas (Meri) Milne. Rusty’s love for his family was unwavering, and his spirit was further enriched through the close-knit family bond he shared with his beloved in-laws, Susan and the late Louis Kraetke, and his brother-in-law, the late Louis Kraetke III, and Jonathan (Angela) Kraetke.
Rusty was blessed to find his soulmate in his high school sweetheart, Heidi. They spent 35 incredible years together, 26 of which were spent in joyful marriage. Their love story was one for the ages—a beautiful testament to the power of commitment and companionship. Rusty was not just a husband; he was Heidi’s partner, confidant, and greatest supporter. Together, they built a loving home filled with laughter and happiness, where their two children, Elizabeth and Russell, flourished. He was a loving and devoted father, always eager to inspire and guide his children through life’s many challenges. Rusty shared countless moments with Elizabeth and Russell, nurturing their passions and interests while imparting wisdom through storytelling and humor.
A successful entrepreneur and owner of Russ Milne Ford, Rusty devoted himself to creating a welcoming and thriving environment for both his employees and customers. His passion for automobiles was infectious, and he had a remarkable ability to connect with people. Most days, one could find him at the dealership, orchestrating business operations while discussing the latest vehicles and innovations in the automotive world. Rusty genuinely enjoyed being in the car industry, relishing every opportunity to help families find the right vehicles that suited their needs.
Beyond the world of business, Rusty had a multifaceted personality. He was an avid guitar enthusiast who found solace in music. Whether strumming with friends or spending quiet evenings playing in his living room, his love for music was an essential part of who he was. Additionally, he adored spending time on the water at Harsen’s Island, where he created cherished memories with family and friends. The simple act of being on the water brought him unparalleled joy, as he appreciated the beauty of nature and the tranquility it provided.
Rusty’s infectious laughter and sharp wit made him a beloved figure to all who knew him. He had a way of making others feel special, often using humor to lighten the mood and bring smiles to faces. His charming personality left an indelible mark on the people he encountered throughout his life, earning him friendship and admiration. For many, Rusty was a guiding light and a source of inspiration, demonstrating that happiness can be found in both the grand and the simple moments of life.
In remembrance of Russell Paul Milne, we invite you to join us in honoring his memory. Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 2 PM to 9 PM, followed by a 10 AM Funeral Service on Wednesday at Wujek – Calcaterra & Sons Inc., located at 54880 Van Dyke at 25 Mile Rd in Shelby Township. It is a time for reflection, remembrance, and connection with one another as we gather to celebrate the life of a remarkable man.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are appreciated to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (https://www.lls.org/mi-in). This organization is dedicated to funding research for blood cancers and providing support to those affected by these illnesses. Your contributions will honor Rusty’s fight and support others in their battles, ensuring that his legacy continues to shine brightly in the lives of those in need. The warmth, laughter, and joy he brought into our lives will resonate in our hearts forever. Rusty’s spirit will live on through his family, friends, and everyone whose life he touched.
