Russell "Rusty" Gill

Russell “Rusty” Gill, 70, passed away peacefully on July 19, 2022 due to a long battle with multiple illnesses. 

Per Rusty’s request, there will be no services and he ask that everyone celebrate his life through your love for all music.  Arrangements are under the direction of Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel.

Rusty was born January 29, 1952 in Sioux City, Iowa, the son of Tom and Marilyn (Graves) Gill.  He attended Central High School, graduating in 1969.  He went on to playing guitar and dreaming of becoming a star.  He wrote 100% original songs, to include a 45-record titled “It’s Only When I’m Lonely” when he was 16 years old.  He played in several bands to include The Last Chapter, Freight, and too many more to mention.  You could often find him sitting in with bands playing guitar with anyone who would take him.  He also played solo gigs at the Patio, The First Edition, The Paddock, JoMars Bar, and so many more.  In 2005, his band, The Last Chapter, was inducted into the Iowa Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, performing in Okoboji.  The band included original members, Dave Schultz (rhythm guitar), Jim Wentworth (Bass guitar), Dave Wenberg (Drums) and Rusty on lead guitar and vocals. 

Rusty married Gayle Pilgrim in 1968 and they had a daughter, Kimberly (Moran).  They later divorced.  He then married Patti Gill in 1984, and they had a daughter, Kelsey Lenae.  Both his daughters brought purpose and meaning to his life.

Rusty is survived by his two daughters:  Kimberly and Kelsey; brothers:  Tim Gill and Joey Gill; sisters:  Gloria (Blakely) and Debbie (Green), and many nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Tom Gill and Marilyn (Graves) Gill.

Rusty was a one-of-a-kind guitar player and singer/songwriter.  There wasn’t a song he couldn’t play, especially by the Beatles.  Listen to his music at Soundclick.com.

“Here comes the Sun” Rusty – may that sun shine on you forever.  “You were only waiting for this moment to be free.”  - Blackbird.  Rest In Peace.