John H. Rusie was an undertaker and furniture dealer in Mooresville. He was a lieutenant in the Civil War.

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John Rusie was the son of immigrants from Germany, Michael and Catharine (House) Rusie. By the time he was born they had settled in Virginia.

His obituary Mooresville Times, March 16, 1923 was very extensive. The entries here that appear in quote marks are from it.

"John Henry Rusie has come back to Mooresville, not to extend the hand in hearty greetings as of yore, but to be laid to rest beside the wife who shared his companionship more than three score years and his only daughter, Meda, who preceded him in death twenty seven years ago."

"He is the last of the original party of three families" [included the Rusie and House families] "who were traveling westward in their covered wagons, with the intention of locating in Illinois," [might have been Iowa] "they could find neither flour or meal, coming on to Bridgeport" [might have been Plainfield] "they were directed to Samuel Moore's mill at Mooresville where bread stuff was obtained and the party prevailed on to remain here at least until better weather for travel, with the result that all permanently located here. Thus did an over-ruling providence change their plans and give to our community worthy citizens."

John married Mary Jane Olleman on September 4, 1857. They had three children: Alameda "Meda" W., James H. and Frederick W. Rusie.

He enlisted as a Sergeant on August 7, 1862 in Company E, 12th Indiana Infantry Regiment and was promoted to Full 1st Lieutenant on September 24, 1864. He mustered out June 8, 1865 at Washington, DC.

"He was with Sherman in his famous march to the sea and so far as can be learned is the last of that company from the vicinity of Mooresville. John H. Mills who preceded him in death a fews weeks before was with him throughout the service."

He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and served as trustee. He also served on the school board for many years.

"He was a charter member of the Morgan Lodge I.O.O.F. and a Mason in the early history of the order here, and of the S.K. Harryman Post G.A.R. After the war, he was engaged at the tinners trade, manufacturing many of the articles in demand of that day. After the death of John A. Butner, he took over the furniture and undertaking business, greatly increasing its efficiency, and continued there until the infirmities of age caused him to retire."

"To him also the present generation is indebted for much of the early history of our town and community. His citizenship was such as that eight years ago the people of the town felt that recognition was due" and "a reception given in the Odd Fellows Hall in honor of Mr. And Mrs. Rusie. After a program of music and short speeches, his Comrade in Arms, John H. Mills, voiced the appreciation of the community in presenting him with a gold-headed cane. Mrs. Rusie was also kindly remembered with a gift presented by Mrs. Lawcy Scott."

"A few years ago he suffered the loss of his eyesight, but bore the affliction with a marked degree of patience and without bitterness or complaint. This loss made it necessary for he and Mrs. Rusie to go to the home of their sons for his care."

It was at his son's home that he passed away on a Sunday evening. His wife had preceded him in death.