Smith, Russell Lane

June 30, 1947 - February 22, 2007

Russell “Rusty” Smith, 59, of Danville, passed away Feb. 22, 2007, at Provena United Samaritans Medical Center in Danville.

Rusty was born June 30, 1947, in Danville, the son of Russell McLain and Louise Smith. He married Teresa Pruitt in Danville. She survives along with: sons, Scott of Westville, Tracy of Danville and Toby of Gibson City; sister, Sherry Fitzwater of Ridge Farm; eight grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and his dog, Rocky. He had a very special friend in Larry Witman.

Rusty attended Cayuga, Lynch, Catlin and Ridge Farm. He worked as a professional stunt man for TNT Productions for 20 years. He was in the movie “Death Rider” and the TV shows “Knight Rider” and “CHIPS.” While working for TNT, he was best known as Squeeks the Clown. Rusty was a drummer since the age of 14, playing for several local bands.

A celebration of Rusty’s life will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2007, at Sunset Funeral Home & Cremation Center; 3940 N. Vermilion St. in Danville. Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. He will be laid to rest at Newtown Cemetery in Newtown, Vermilion County, Illinois.

Memorials may be made to the family. Condolences may be sent to the family at: www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.