Rufus W. (Rusty) Putnam

Rufus W. (Rusty) Putnam, 74, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday morning, July 22, 2023. Born in Santa Fe,

NM, Rusty lived his life in New Mexico except for the few years he lived in Denver CO. He graduated from the University of New Mexico with a B.S. degree in Biology. After graduating, Rusty worked in the research labs at the university, then medical equipment sales. He later moved into the construction equipment rental industry that included positions at Builders Equipment, Frank’s Supply and Power Equipment. Rusty spent the last 20+ year of his working career at CEI Enterprises as their purchasing and transportation manager.

Rusty was an avid golfer and played every chance he had. In retirement, he especially looked forward to his weekly round with close friends at the UNM South course. Rusty enjoyed traveling and spending time outdoors camping with his wife, Cathy, and relished a close family relationship with his children and grandchildren. Rusty was a sports car enthusiast, loved his dogs and his music, was a diehard Denver Broncos fan and closely followed UNM men’s basketball. Rusty is survived by his wife, Cathy; his stepchildren, Jennifer Vosburgh (Jacob Vosburgh), John Elliott (Leanne Parshall); his stepgrandchildren, Cole and Kyle Vosburgh; his mother, Cecily Putnam; his sister BenAnne PutnamHearon and brother Randy Crosley (Cheryl Crosley). He was preceded in death by his father, Benjamin Putnam, his stepfather, Bill Crosley, and his brother-in-law (and lifelong best friend), Hank Hearon.

A memorial for Rusty will be held on Saturday, 9/02/2023, at the UNM South Golf Course Pavilion from 2:00p to 4:00p. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity.