Rusty Brake

Rusty Brake, 36, of Artesia, New Mexico, passed away on April 17, 2025. Born in Amarillo, TX and raised in Tucumcari, NM. Rusty graduated from Tucumcari High School in 2007, attended Mesalands Community College and then went on to earn an Associates of Applied Science degree from Eastern New Mexico University. He was a devoted husband, a loving and doting father to two children and two stepchildren, and a man who brought warmth, joy, and reliability to everyone around him. A true "Mr. Fix-It," Rusty was as handy around the house as he was in the garden, where his green thumb was always at work. Whether crafting something special for his family, playing his guitar, or simply being there for a friend, Rusty was a man of many talents and endless heart.

Rusty was a dedicated and hardworking member of the PSC Group at the HF Sinclair Renewables PTU in Artesia. He quickly rose through the ranks, beginning as a railcar loader and becoming a qualified railroad engineer. He was promoted to crew leader, then unit operator at the wastewater treatment plant, followed by outside crew lead, and ultimately, a Control Board Operator. Rusty was respected not only for his skills and leadership, but also for his consistency, safety, and efficiency on the job. His presence and professionalism made a lasting impact on his coworkers, who viewed him as a dependable leader and a valued friend.

Rusty married the love of his life, Ruth, in October 2022. They were not only partners in life, but also best friends who shared an unbreakable bond. Together, they found joy in the simple things-laughing, exploring new places, and making unforgettable memories. While they both cherished time with their children and family, they held their private moments sacred-traveling, dreaming, and building a future filled with love and quiet adventures. They looked forward to growing old and gray together, hand in hand, never taking a single day for granted.

Rusty was a hands-on and loving father who found deep fulfillment in spending time with his children. He made it a point to teach them the things he loved most-showing them how to tend a garden, build and fix things with their own hands, and take pride in a job well done. He often included them in small projects, passing down his knowledge of craftsmanship and creativity. He also passed along his joy of music, teaching them how to play guitar and other instruments, always encouraging their curiosity and self-expression. Rusty's time with his children was filled with patience, laughter, and guidance, planting seeds of wisdom and love that will continue to grow for a lifetime.

Rusty is preceded in death by his brother Leonard Dwayne Brake, Jr. and grandmother Patsy Thomas.

Rusty's survivors include his wife, Ruth Brake and children, Lorelei and Sebastian of Artesia, NM and Sawyer and Clayton of Dumas, TX. Grandparents, Rusty Jr and Nell Brake. Parents, Leonard and Lateresa Brake. A sister, Sam Brake and nieces Dally, Quincy and a nephew, TJ all of Tucumcari, NM.

There will be a Memorial Service in Tucumcari at Divine Connection at 2:00 p.m. on April 26th, 2025, with Pastor Fred Caton officiating.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Faith Baptist Church at 4:00 p.m. on May 6th, 2025, with Pastor Robby Ballew officiating.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the community for their unwavering support, compassion, and kindness during this profoundly difficult and heartbreaking time.