Connie Lynn (Rusch) Klein, 75, of Russell, Kan., passed away, Sunday, April 26, 2026, at Russell Regional Hospital, Russell.

Connie was born Oct. 30, 1950, in Russell. She was one of two children born to Louis A. and Lillian K. (Bauer) Rusch. She grew up in Russell, and graduated from Russell High School in the Class of 1968.

Connie was united in marriage to David Anderson in 1968; they later divorced. Connie was united in marriage to John D. Klein on Oct. 19, 1987. They made their home in Russell. John preceded her in death on March 24, 2010.

Connie was a passionate and caring caregiver to many individuals in the Russell area at their homes. Earlier in life, she was a secretary for John O’Farmer Inc., DSNWK and Koch Oil. She was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church. She was the CEO of Gentle Giants Therapeutic Riding. She raised and sold Doberman pinschers for many years, which later evolved into her desire for animal rescue. She enjoyed working with John doing chuck wagon cooking for black powder shoots and cowboy gatherings, and going antique shopping anytime was a good time.

The main thing that brought a smile to her face and put a sparkle in her eye was her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was always ready to attend their activities at the drop of a hat. She will be dearly missed by family and her special group of friends.
Connie’s surviving family include her two daughters, Tiffinie Mai (Monty) and Tammie Schultz (Kris), both of Russell; brother Alan Rusch, Russell; three grandchildren, Lane Mai (Alex), Braden Mai and Bailey Kilian (Sam); six great-grandchildren, Brantley, Oaklynn, Emery, Ryker, Ella and Eli; two nieces, Mersadi Ann Rusch, Heizer Kan., and Alexus Kathryn Rusch, Great Bend; great-nephew Jackson “Jack” Clifford Michael Ray, Larned, Kan.; and great-niece Lillian “Lilly” RoseAnne Ray, Larned.
Connie was preceded in death by her parents and husband John.
Visitation will be held from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday, May 4, 2026, at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, Russell, with the family present to greet friends from 6-7 p.m. A celebration of Connie’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary. Burial of ashes will follow at St. Mary Catholic Cemetery, Russell. A memorial has been established as the Connie Klein Memorial. Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of arrangements.