Eugene J. "Rusty" Brombolich, Jr., age 64, of Collinsville, IL, peacefully passed away on Friday, November 7, 2025, at Anderson Hospital in Maryville, IL.

He was born November 13, 1960, in Belleville, IL, to the late Eugene Brombolich, Sr. and Wanda (nee Cretin) Messina.

A sports enthusiast, Rusty closely followed the St. Louis Cardinals and St. Louis Blues. A gifted athlete himself, he played many sports growing up, including Collinsville Raiders football, a program started by his dad. During his years at Collinsville High School, Rusty played Kahok football, baseball, and was on the wrestling team.

As an adult, Rusty continued his love for athletics by playing softball and coaching his daughters in select softball and basketball. Both went on to become premier athletes, taking after their dad. He loved coaching and was a positive influence on the hundreds of athletes he coached. He will be deeply missed by all who loved him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepmother, Judy Brombolich; stepfather, Vincent Messina; a brother, Todd Albright, and a brother-in-law, Dennis Thebeau.

Rusty is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Cheryl (nee Benyr) Brombolich; two daughters, Courtney (Richard) Kunkle and Caitlyn Brombolich; two grandsons, Cadence Merrifield and Dayton Lewis; three sisters, Kim Thebeau, Alison (nee Brombolich) Romanik, and Beckie Brombolich; sister in law, Patty (Jim) Mazzaro; brother in law, Mark Benyr; brother in law, Bill (Vicky) Benyr; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

A memorial visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at Barry Wilson Funeral Home in Maryville, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the family and will be accepted at the funeral home.