Rusty was a rock and roll musician who became enamored of Irish traditional music, particular as played by the Chieftains. Blended with a love for American folk music, the group Wood’s Tea Company was formed and began touring the country. In recent years the group was playing over 120 shows a year.

Last fall the band lost another member, Chip Chase. Wood’s Tea Company continued to perform with guest musicians. Band member Howard Wooden has said that they will honor their schedule following the sudden passing of Rusty. The surviving band members will perform the scheduled gigs through next summer and then determine the future of the group.

Rusty is survived by his wife Donna and their daughter Kate as well as his mother and sister. Memories of Rusty can be shared at a website by clicking here .

On a personal note, I would like to extend my condolences as well as those from the Hurdy Gurdy Folk Music Club. Wood’s Tea Company was a favorite of Hurdy Gurdy audiences, and I had been talking with Rusty as late as month ago to try and arrange a future return appearance. Rusty was a kind and wonderful man, and a real pleasure to work with. His love for the music was clearly evident and his contributions will be missed. Thank you Rusty for all you shared with us.