- Date Of Death: December 2, 2012
- State: Indiana
ELKHART — Janice M. Ruszkowski, 64, of Elkhart, passed away Sunday evening, Dec. 2, 2012, at Elkhart General Hospital.
She was born Feb. 15, 1948, in North Providence, R.I. to Matteao and Mildred (Pezzi) Bursie. She married Michael A. Ruszkowski on July 27, 1969, in North Providence.
Surviving are her husband of 43 years, Michael A. Ruszkowski of Elkhart; son Chris M. Ruszkowski and wife Megan of Littleton, Colo.; and daughter Kori A. Ruszkowski of Elkhart. Also, surviving are her grandsons, Maxwell, Jacob, Sebastian, and Griffin; brother Frank Bursie and wife Cathy of Smithfield, R.I.; and her mother, Mildred Bursie of North Providence.
Her father, Matteao Bursie, preceded her in death.
Janice moved from North Providence to attend Franklin College in Franklin where she was a member and past president of Delta Delta Delta sorority and was voted homecoming queen her senior year.
After graduating from Franklin College, she married the love of her life, Mike Ruszkowski, in North Providence. They resided in California and Ohio before moving to Elkhart in 1980.
As a member of the Elkhart community, she worked at the YMCA as the adult activities director. Janice started as a realtor and was a valuable contributor to not only Coldwell Banker but also the greater realty community. She started with Coldwell Banker about 20 years ago and served as marketing director, manager, and agent. In 2012, Janice was recognized as the Realtor of the Year for her professionalism, community service, and board activity.
In addition to her real estate achievements, Janice was also active on the Elkhart Mental Health Board and with South Bend’s Life Treatment Center, Elkhart Symphony, Upper St. Joseph River Flotilla, Elkhart Riverwalk Foundation, and as a CARES mentor. Janice was a Rotarian and enjoyed helping with the Tastes of the Gardens event each year.
