Joan L. Rusbasan

Surrounded by her family on Thursday, March 27, 2025, age 76 of Shaler Twp. Daughter of the late Arnold and Teresa Hughey. Beloved Wife of the late Frank R. Rusbasan Jr., Loving Mother of Kate (Tim) Koch Proud Grandma of Evan and Brennan Koch. Sister of Sue (late, James) Arendt, Michael (Nancy) Hughey, the late Sally (Bill) Duffett, Tim (Christy) Hughey, and Terry (Bill) Shore.Sister-in-law of Charley (Susan) Rusbasan. Dear Aunt, to many nieces and nephews.

Joan dedicated her life to the service of helping others. A 1966 graduate of Shaler High School, Joan went on to attend Sewickley Valley Hospital School of Nursing, where she earned her degree as a registered nurse and received the prestigious Gloria Gurthrie Applegate Award for outstanding nursing. She began her career at Suburban General, later transitioning into pediatrics while completing her BS in Nursing at LaRoche College. For 25 years, she worked at Pediatric Alliance, North Hills Division, starting as a research nurse and ultimately retiring in 2015 as the Office Manager.

In retirement, Joan found her greatest joy in a role that was closest to her heart—the coordinator of all things related to her grandsons, Evan and Brennan. They truly were the light of her life. Joan spent countless hours teaching, watching, and cheering them on at school, on the diamond, and on the soccer pitch (even though she always claimed she’d never quite get the rules of soccer). There was nothing she loved more than being in their presence, and she made every moment spent with them feel special. This loving and nurturing nature extended to her friendships as well—she was a friend to many, and she will be missed dearly by all who knew her.

Friends received Wednesday 2-8 PM at the Hahn FH & Cremation Services Inc., 123 North Ave, Millvale. Mass of Christian Burial Thursday, 10 AM St. Matthew's Parish, St. Bonaventure Church.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joan L. Rusbasan, please visit our floral store.