John Blust, former president and owner of the Ohio-based Riffle & Associates independent rep agency, passed away at age 85 on April 25. According to his obituary at www.legacy.com, he is survived by his wife, Susan M., and his four children: Beth (Mike) Bruggeman, Claire (Dave) Rodehaver, John (Becky) Blust, and Michael (Niki) Blust. John has 10 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren (with two more on the way). Sue has three children: Betsy (Jim) Slattery, Jim (Linda) Walker, and Katie (Corwyn) Strout, along with five grandchildren. John has two siblings, William (Kim) Blust of Colorado Springs, CO, Sister Jean Ann Blust of Mount Notre Dame in Cincinnati, and Marilyn O'Brien. He is preceded in death by his parents John and Lillian Blust of Middletown, OH, and great-granddaughter Harper Kerlin.
John was born in Middletown, OH, in 1936. He earned a bachelor's of science degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Dayton in 1959. He enlisted in the Army and was honorably discharged in 1967 as a 1st Lieutenant. He began work at Cutler-Hammer and later joined Riffle and Associates, eventually becoming president and owner. John loved his work and retired in 2017.
According to his obituary, “Retirement didn't slow him down. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, visiting with family, traveling to the Outer Banks, and pouring Manhattans. John never knew a stranger and had a huge heart. He was one of the founders of the annual Alter Festival. He discovered much gratification by volunteering at DECA Middle School in Dayton, Ohio, assisting with reading, mentoring, and student interventions. John also contributed his time, talents and energy to Corryville Catholic Elementary School in Cincinnati, OH. He spent countless hours working at the Bingo Bonanzas and the Celebration on Calhoun, Corryville's annual fundraising event. John touched so many in his life and provided great memories for all of us.”