Lilli Bautista Rusk

Lilli passed away on Friday October 4, 2024, at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston Texas.

Born on May 30, 1958, to Cris (deceased) and Lily in San Francisco, California, Lilli Anne Rusk (nee Bautista) is survived by her mother, Lily; her brothers, Chris and Ralph (Bridget); and her husband, Paul.

Inseparable since their third date in 1988, when Paul realized he would attain eternal bliss if he could earn her love, Lilli married Paul on November 23, 1994. The two started each day with a kiss and an exchange of “I love you”.

When Lilli and Paul first met, Lilli’s career was that of a corporate travel agent.  Her quick mind and exceptional organizational skills allowed her to excel, as evidenced by CEOs of corporations who insisted that Lilli handle their travel.  Fortunately, Lilli retired early when the internet disintermediated the travel agency industry.  She spent the last few decades of her life traveling and living in different places, including Australia for a year.

Compassion, understanding, acceptance, optimism and love were Lilli’s super powers. Lilli's huge heart and non-judgmental ways won her an enormous sphere of fans and friends all over this world.  Whether through yoga, tennis, charity work, and other activities, Lilli shied from being the center of attention.  Instead, she delighted in being the force that elevated all who loved her. A few minutes with Lilli, and you knew your life would be better with her in it.  She was easy to love.  She was easy to confide in.  Her heart seemed limitless.  With Lilli you knew you were loved, supported, safe, important, and beautiful.  

Lilli’s treasured group throughout her life were the Balderama sisters (May, Mya & Janie) and Janie’s husband Randy.  Seeing them together was a lesson in how to enjoy life and each other.

Lilli cherished each and every friendship, and their lives were better ~ thanks to Lilli.

** We have so much more to share about our kind and lovable Lilli.  We welcome your tributes and mementos here.  We invite family and friends to join us in remembrance:

Visitation and Services - Las Vegas

Wednesday, October 16, 2024

2:00pm - 5:00pm

Palm Cheyenne Mortuary

7400 West Cheyenne Avenue, Las Vegas, NV, 89129

Celebration of Lilli's Life

to be held in San Francisco late-November

Check back for details and information to be shared here

Novenas are in progress (check with us for Zoom link), and SoCal plans are also underway.  We will share information via this page.