Daniel Rust

Daniel Jeffrey Rust was born on July 7, 1999, in Oskaloosa, Iowa to Jeff Rust and Renae Duncan. He was baptized at the First Presbyterian Church in Luverne, Minnesota. As a small child, Daniel loved his Tonka trucks and books. His favorite stories were of the big pink fluffy dragon. At 15 months old, he was reading flash cards with his older sister. Daniel attended Millard North High School in Omaha, Nebraska. He had a deeply analytical mind and was brilliant in mathematics and especially loved chemistry. He enjoyed being part of robotics teaching.

Daniel was known for his love of all things computer-related, his mechanical engine abilities, and mathematical wizardry. He could rebuild an engine and loved working on his cars. He never missed celebrating his birthday with the 4th of July which included as many fireworks as possible. Daniel had a wonderful sense of humor. He was extremely empathetic and always the first to lend a hand and support those around him, almost to a fault. His community would call him for help if they needed their cars fixed, problems listened to, and help carrying in groceries. Daniel loved God, and having long conversations about theology. His greatest joy was becoming a father and focusing his life around his daughter and partner Cody. Daniel was deeply loved by his family and community.

Daniel died on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, in Omaha, Nebraska at the age of 26 years, 7 months, and 3 days.

Daniel is survived by his partner, Cody Klaila of Omaha; daughter, Eleanor Rust of Omaha; father, Jeff (Page) Rust of Omaha; mother, Renae (Matt) Duncan of Hiawatha, Kansas; sister, Brittany Rust of Syracuse, New York; half-brother, Matthew Duncan; step-brother, Kolton Ginter; grandmother, Gloria Rust of Luverne, Minnesota; grandparents, Susan and Larry Gagne of Duluth, Minnesota; and other family and many friends. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Albert (Bud) Rust.

Private family services will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Daniel’s daughter, Eleanor Rust.