Donald I. “Rusty” Coyne: A Life Remembered
Born on April 10, 1934, to parents Raymond P. Coyne and Eleanor A. (Franks) Coyne amidst the rugged, beauty of Butte, Montana, Donald I. Coyne was a man whose warmth, humor, and generous spirit left an enduring mark on everyone he encountered. His infectious laughter and playful teasing were legendary, brightening the lives of those around him.
Growing up, Donald attended Saint Ann s School, where he undoubtedly began to hone his quick wit and mischievous sense of humor. He continued his education at Boys’ Central High School, where he likely made lifelong friends and further developed his charming personality. After school, Donald embarked on a career as a machinist for Western Iron Works. He soon left for the warm sun of Southern California where he remained until retirement. However, his true passions lay in the great outdoors and the camaraderie of family and friends. He was an avid fisherman. He loved camping and sharing stories and laughter with all who would listen. Football was another of his passions, and he also had a need for speed and enjoyed the thrill of racing. Family was at the center of Rusty’s life, and he cherished the time he spent with his loved ones. He shared a special bond with his brothers Jack, Pat, and Ray, and their playful antics were legendary. He also had a close relationship with his sisters Colleen, Joan, and Marilyn, and he delighted in teasing them with his trademark wit.
After retiring, Donald and his beloved wife Shirley embarked on a new adventure, traveling the country in their RV. They explored the diverse landscapes and cultures of America, creating cherished memories along the way.
Donald’s journey through life included two marriages. His first marriage to Lila Johnson resulted in two daughters, Cindy and Cathy. Although their marriage ended in divorce they remained true friends. Rusty then found love again with Shirley and with her came four more daughters; Linda, Lori, Cindy, and Pam.
Rusty was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Jack and wife Dorothy, Patrick, and Raymond, brother-in-law Richard (Janice) Kutin and Lois Lindquist daughters Cathy Coyne and Cindy Walter, son-in-law, Eudell Lusher, his grandsons Josh Heinrich, Leon Lusher and Sean Shockney, his brother-in-law John Sullivan, his nieces Lori Taylor and Marybeth Casazza, and his nephew Brett Coffing.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 62 years, Shirley; his loving sisters Colleen (John) Tucker, Joan Sullivan, and Marilyn (Chuck) Goforth; his daughters Cindy Heinrich, Pam Lusher, Lori Linquist, Linda (Mike) Shamley; his grandchildren Jennifer Heinrich, Jake Heinrich, Jessica Heinrich, Jamie (Tori) Johnson, Rossi (Jessica) Coyne, Danielle (Daniel) Gallemore Jamie (John) Botts, Shannon (Damien) Janet, Ellyn (Tony) Civella, Steve (Christie) Shamley, and Jennifer Lusher as well as numerous great and great/great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews who will forever cherish his memory.
Donald ”Rusty” Coyne will be remembered not only for his vibrant personality and infectious laughter but also for the profound impact he had on the lives of those fortunate enough to know him. His legacy of love, generosity, and humor will continue to inspire and uplift his family and friends for generations to come.
Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.-Mary Elizabeth Frye
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to St. Ann’s building or a charity of your choice.
You may visit below to offer a condolence to the family or share a memory of Rusty.
Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services is privileged to care for Rusty and his family.
Service Schedule
Visitation
10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Thursday April 10, 2025
St. Ann's Catholic Church
2100 Farragut Ave
Butte, Montana 59701
Funeral Mass
11:00 a.m.
Thursday April 10, 2025
St. Anne's Catholic Church
2100 Farragut Ave
Butte, Montana 59701
Reception
Following Mass
Thursday April 10, 2025
St Ann's Catholic Church Parish Hall
2100 Farragut Ave
Butte, Montana 59701
Service Schedule
Visitation
10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Thursday April 10, 2025
St. Ann's Catholic Church
2100 Farragut Ave
Butte, Montana 59701
Funeral Mass
11:00 a.m.
Thursday April 10, 2025
St. Anne's Catholic Church
2100 Farragut Ave
Butte, Montana 59701
Reception
Following Mass
Thursday April 10, 2025
St Ann's Catholic Church Parish Hall
2100 Farragut Ave
Butte, Montana 59701
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Tom Callaghan says
I remember a great time fifty years ago when my wife Georgia and I made our first RV trip to California
with her twin brothers for an RV vacation. We stopped to visit Rusty and Shirley and their daughter Pam. Rusty was a fantastic host and talked about the times in Butte when his girls Cindy and Cathy were little.
I am the same age as Cindy and naturally Rusty (being a proud daddy) had pictures and films of his girls with Patty, Danny and Tommy. Rusty and Shirley set up a large picture screen and showed numerous super-8 films of our families. What a great visit! I cherish memories of my cousin Rusty. His infectious laughter will never be forgotten.
Maureen Harrington Britton says
My deepest condolences to the coin family for the loss of their father. I have been a neighbor of Don and Shirley for the last 5 Years. They are the kindest people and will be so missed by me. When I first moved in they were still active and always said hello and always had a smile. They kept their corner place so clean and neat and added so much to our neighborhood. I loved seeing them sitting and visiting on warm days in the backyard . They both lived rich long lives. The poem that you published here is lovely and suits them both. May they both rest in peace. They brought so much peace to this neighborhood and to my life.
Sincerest sympathy to all of you for your loss.
Maureen Harrington Britton