Obituaries detail

Ciro J. Rustici, Age: 74
Aug 01, 1948 - Jun 17, 2023

Ciro J. Rustici entered this world on August 1, 1948, the first of six children, born to Anthony and Celestine (Brugaletta) Rustici.  He peacefully passed on June 17, 2023, at 4:44 p.m. at home while surrounded by his family.

Raised in the family grocery business, Ciro ventured on to his true passion for healthcare after his life was saved through chiropractic. He graduated from Cleveland Chiropractic College in Kansas City, Missouri where he met his lifelong friend and mentor Dr. Charles Dickerson of Rome, Georgia.  For the next 53 years, Ciro dedicated his life to the wellbeing of others through his chiropractic practice.  His patients over the years numbered into the thousands, many travelling miles for his specialized care. 

After studying several years with Dr. Blair, Ciro became proficient in the Blair Specific Upper Cervical technique and was a well renowned authority in the Blair method. For 35 years, he taught the Blair work with the help of his good friend, Dr. Roger Morrison. Ciro’s contribution helped preserve the Blair technique, inspiring many doctors and impacting countless lives. Dr. Rustici was featured in Chicken Soup for the Chiropractic Soul and received a Chiropractor of the Year award.

Ciro was a man of passion in everything he did.  He immersed himself in multiple hobbies including magic, comedy, martial arts, woodcarving, bonsai gardening, astronomy, collecting cigars, music, fitness, firearms, and photography, which was spurred by his love for nature.  His photography graces many homes and businesses.

His greatest love was for his family and their regular gatherings, holding true to the heritage of his Italian roots and Sicilian background.  Most holiday gatherings at Ciro’s home would include recipes and dishes passed down from multiple generations.  Ciro’s love for animals was evident throughout his entire life, owning various breeds of dogs and his beloved African Grey parrot B.J., his pet bird for over 28 years, who was with him at his passing.

Ciro’s first marriage to Dr. Tara Allen resulted in the birth of two sons, Dr. Wade Rustici and Dr. Drake Rustici, who carry on Ciro’s passion for Chiropractic.

His second marriage to Susan Talbot Rustici, who was the love of his life, brought two more children for Ciro to love. Their nearly 30 years together were filled with many adventures and enjoyment which included RV travel and time at the lake. 

Ciro had a joyful life and was truly loved by all who knew him. A great storyteller, he knew how to make people smile and was able to find the good in everyone.

Ciro was preceded in death by his parents, his two younger brothers, Philip James and Steven Michael.  Ciro is survived by his wife, Susan, his two sons, Wade and Drake (Alanna), his two stepchildren, Lauren Simmons Burks and Chad Simmons (Christina), his grandchildren Parker, Gabe, Ty, Gianna, Kaylie, and Chella.  His brothers and sister, Anthony J. Rustici, Thomas C. Rustici (Sonia) and Anna Marie Wegener (Steve), and his beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Ciro Rustici Scholarship Fund, C/O Dr. Drake Rustici Synergy Chiropractic, 603 NE Woods Chapel Rd. Lee's Summit, MO 64064.

A celebration of life will be held on August 17, 2023 at 6:00 PM at Unity Temple, 707 W 47th Street, Kansas City, MO. 64112

This link will livestream the celebration:

 

https://boxcast.tv/view/life-celebration-ccdyludsdeyyn9v6meav

 

Additional Service:
Celebration of Life
Location:
Unity Temple
Address:
707 W 47th Street
City:
Kansas City
State:
Missouri
Zip Code:
64112
Date of Service:
Aug 17, 2023
Time of Service:
06:00 PM
Additional Information:

This link will livestream the celebration:

https://boxcast.tv/view/life-celebration-ccdyludsdeyyn9v6meav

 

Google Map:

Condolences

Delois Tucker Jun 19, 2023

Friend ,Kansas City ,Kansas

With deepest simpathy in the passing of Ciro. He was a good person and chiropractor. He will sorely be missed. My prayers and thoughts are with you. God bless !!

Phil Holman Jun 19, 2023

Close Friend ,Independence ,Missouri

Ciro was more like a brother to me than just a friend. He was always there when you needed his support. Professionally....I have much to thank him for over many many years of expert compassionate care. Adios my friend, you'll be missed.

Dianna Stahl Jun 19, 2023

Patient of Ciro’s ,Independence ,Missouri

To the Rustici family, I want to express my heartfelt condolences to u, and all ur loved ones… Dr. Ciro was a great chiropractor and he helped me a great deal!! I will miss him and his bird, BJ. Dr. Ciro was a true gentle soul who was always so gentle and caring and very gentle with my adjustments. Ty for all the care u gave me! Sincerely yours, Dianna Stahl

Karim Gado Jun 19, 2023

patient ,Mission ,Kansas

Ciro, you touched my life, and those of my sons Peter and Max, in a way that brought healing. You will be missed, but always remembered, and you live on in our hearts. Rest Ciro. Karim

Denise Ayers Jun 19, 2023

Patient/friend ,Independence ,Missouri

I am deeply saddened to learn of Ciro’s passing. He was such a character! I always enjoyed my visits with him and learning about his hobbies and passions. I had only known Ciro for the past year and a half, but we connected early on and shared numerous conversations. Ciro was hard working and dedicated to his patients. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to have know him and receive his chiropractic care. Fly high, Ciro. You will always be loved and appreciated. 🙏

Linda Hill Jun 19, 2023

Friend, patient and business associate ,Independence ,Missouri

Ciro was a phenomenal human that gave every bit of himself for as long as he could. He was one of my best friends for 38 years and I will truly miss him.

Cory Koch Jun 19, 2023

Fellow Chiropractor ,Olathe ,Kansas

Ciro altered my chiropractic career. Prior to my graduation Ciro explained the beauty of traditional chiropractic care in a way that made total sense. His interaction with me changed how I've practiced for the last 30 plus years. Love you Ciro! Cory

Mary (Sue) Otto Jun 19, 2023

Friend ,Denver ,Colorado

Ciro, came into our lives some years ago. He treated us, my Son Michael and treated the man I'm married to, Ron Otto when we resided in Missouri for 11 years. He was a very caring person. A friend of ours the Reese referred us to him while their family also received the wonderful Blair method chiropractic treatment. To this day we continue to receive care from one of his friend Dr. Hug whom Ciro referred us to in the continuous Blair method care. I am so happy we got to know whenever we were treated by Ciro both him and Susan. We also met his two Sons that worked along with their Dad and BJ which sometimes we would try to get BJ to talk to us. BJ probably taught we were cra cra 🤣. Our love, hugs, and prayers go out to all the family. Ciro will be missed.

Dr. Robin Rysavy Jun 19, 2023

Patient and friend ,Lake Winnebago ,Missouri

I am deeply saddened by Ciro's passing. He literally gave me my life back after an injury to my lower back had me in physical therapy for 2 years. If I had known about him before the injury, it never would have occurred. Seven doctors (including several chiropractors) had failed to even look at my neck (which was the root of the problem). Ciro got me straightened out and we became very good friends. I loved talking to him about music (I'm a professional musician), politics, animals, and life. I always felt better (physically) after his adjustments, but it was more than that...I always left feeling totally uplifted in spirit. I will miss him more than I can say. I'm also very grateful he sent me to his son Drake for adjustments several years ago. I can't imagine not having him around, but am so grateful that at least for a few years, I counted him as one of my most treasured friends. God bless!!!

Rickie Haith Jun 19, 2023

Patient/friend ,Leawood ,Kansas

To be a patient of Dr. Ciro is to be a friend. He made everyone feel special and he wanted the best for you. It was really my husband who needed his expertise in working with trigeminal neuralgia. The disease causes severe pain in the face. It has been called the suicide disease. The pain is so excruciating. He made my husband, Dr. Ed Haith, able to take living with this horrible disease more bearable to live with. God bless his beautiful soul. He is one of a select few that knew how to treat this disease. He helped me with my back and also my daughter. We visited him as a family and made it a fun outing. We live In Leawood, Kansas. My husband passed away 2; years ago. My daughter and I will miss our trips to Independence to see our beloved friend. Our deepest sympathy to the entire family, Rickie Haith

Clare Roberts Jun 20, 2023

patient ,Sun City Center ,Florida

Susan and Family and B.J., I am so sorry to hear of Ciro's passing. For many years I looked to him for the latest in health news and for a gentle laugh when I came in for treatment. His commitment to healthy living was impressive. The world has lost a wise and gentle soul who touched many. May you be blessed with the strength to go on without him. Many blessings, Clare Roberts

Aaron Kincaid Jun 20, 2023

Friend of Drake ,Kingsville ,Missouri

I basically grew up in the Rustici house and I was never able to truly thank Ciro for all the things he taught me growing up with Drake. He was always more than generous and a very kind man. I am very sorry for the families loss of such a great man. There will never be another quite like him. Thank You Dr. Rustici.

Charles Robert Dickerson Jun 20, 2023

Life-long Friend ,Rome ,Georgia

long wait til we embrace once again. Ciro kindness in lock in my brain and heart.

Charles Robert Dickerson Jun 20, 2023

Life-Long Friend ,Rome ,Georgia

Friendship with Ciro was a gift from Almight God. From his first year in college he was full of inspiration and kindness. And each year thereafter, our friendship grew stronger. Ciro's talents expanded into many skills, especially healing those very will. I'm 88,so it won't be long til we meet again and embrace. A kiss on his cheek will have to wait. Love for Ciro remains in my brain and heart, we really are not so far apart.

Gil Anderson Jun 20, 2023

Patient ,Independence ,Missouri

Ciro was a wonderful man. He truly cared about everyone around him. He made my life more bearable for many years. He particularly venerated First Responders. I know he’s in Heaven now. God Bless his family.

Thad Vuagniaux, D.C. Jun 20, 2023

STUDENT ,Edwardsville ,Illinois

I first met Dr. Rustici nearly 25 years ago. My wife and I drove 5 hours to KC to take a seminar that he and Dr. Morrison were teaching on Blair Upper Cervical Chiropractic. Over the years, we took a number of his seminars. Ciro was so humble, caring and kind! The shear number to condolences here today are a testament to the man Ciro was and the Lives that he touched! Praying for each of You! God Speed Brother!

Debbie (Bingham) Shaw Jun 20, 2023

Childhood Friend ,Kansas City ,Missouri

Ciro’s & My parents were good friends & I have cherished memories of our various shared activities: picnics at Swope Park, my first dance, dinners, & although my family moved Nirth of the river we continued our friendship throughout our life. Ciro will be terribly missed. RIP dear friend. 🥰🥲

Judy Archer Jun 20, 2023

Ciro was a life saver. I was blessed to have known him. The world was a better place when he was alive. Thank you Ciro for everything you’ve done for me. You are truly missed. ❤️

Marty Stanley Jun 21, 2023

Patient and friend ,Christiansted ,Puerto Rico

Ciro's love and passion for life was infectious. I don't think I've ever known anyone who embraced and immersed himself in so many endeavors and excelled at each, which was truly inspirational. All this, while continuing to commit himself to other people's well being. He will be missed.

Melani Greenawalt Jun 21, 2023

Family & Friend ,Pleasant Hill ,Missouri

Much love & peace to Ciro. He earned his wings BEFORE this journey onward. Prayers, love & peace to his family as well. Many thanks to Ciro for his commitment to his craft. I would not have been physically able to do my trade of 30 years. God Bless you, Ciro!! Sincerely, THANK YOU! May the memories of his humor, hysterical antics & good times carry you all through this difficult loss. ✌🏼💗💋🙏🏼

Jana Abeln Jun 21, 2023

Ciro was one of the most caring people I know and he was always putting others before himself. I worked for him for three years and he always knew how to brighten my day. He would walk in almost every morning and say, "Good morning! I love seeing your smile!" He was quite the charmer. He always said the funniest phrases and knew how to light up the room. I know he changed so many peoples lives for the better. I will miss Ciro every day. My love goes out to all of his family and friends.

Joel and Nancy Schnare and family Jun 21, 2023

Patients ,Bosworth ,Missouri

To the Rustici family, We were shocked and saddened to learn of Ciro's passing. He has been a large part of our family's health care. He had a special gift in the use of chiropractic medicine and the art of living. Prayers as you go forward. Joel and Nancy Schnare

Andrea White Jun 21, 2023

Friend and his Hairstylist ,Independence ,Missouri

Ciro my dear friend when we met years ago we clicked and our friendship began. We shared our professional magic on each other. I keep you looking handsome and you fixed my body. I will truly miss our heart to heart talks about everything from family, food, politics along with keeping the mind and body in balanced. I’ve been truly blessed to have known you and received excellent care from you. You will be missed my friend! My thoughts and prayers go out to Susan and your family. Until we meet again, it’s not goodbye, it’s see you later.❤️

Lisa Allen Jun 21, 2023

Friend ,Kansas City ,Missouri

Ciro was a healer on this earth, put here to bless others with his talents. He did this with such grace and kindness. Thank you my friend, you will be missed. Also thank you for passing your talents on to the next generation, we are all so lucky to have had you in our lives. Fly with the angels and see you on the other side.❤️

Larry Garrett Jun 21, 2023

Friend ,Independence

God bless you, Ciro! You were a really decent man. Truly one of the good guys. RIP, my friend! Rest assured that you will not be forgotten.

Cathy Feagle Jun 21, 2023

A best friend of Anna Marie, sister to the departed. ,Overland Park ,Kansas

Dear Family, So very, very sorry for your loss. I pray you all will be at peace. Prayers and hugs with you all.

Rosie Ford Jun 22, 2023

I am still in shock as I am sure you all are. Ciro was our constant, he had the best memory and shared so many stories of all our families wonderful times together, He would always love telling everyone how he changed my diapers. But he ALWAYS made me feel so special and beautiful. He had that gift of giving joy and encouragement to so many. He had healing hands and truly believed in his work. I am going to miss him so much. I think I saw him almost every week, most of the time. I love you all so much, let us keep his memory alive. Kiss the sky for me Ciro and give everyone a big hug. I'm sure you are all celebrating with Jesus.

Louise & Mike Desaulniers Jun 25, 2023

friend ,Kelowna, BC

Our deepest condolences to Susan and family! It has been many years since we last saw you, however beautiful memories of our time together remains in our hearts forever! Sending love and light your way! Louise & Mike

Terry Jun 29, 2023

Patient ,KC ,Kansas

Ciro Rustici was a wonderful man and a brilliant doctor. He helped thousands of people with their physical health by his chiropractic adjustments and their mental health by making them smile with his stories and compassion. I am one of those people. He literally saved my life and returned me to a happy, healthy lifestyle. I will be forever grateful to him for helping me and for training his sons, Wade and Drake, to continue his legacy.

B.J. Hardick Jul 05, 2023

Colleague ,Sarasota ,Florida

Sending love to the Rustici family. Thank you for sharing Ciro with us for so many years. He was instrumental in my education as a chiropractic student and I will never forget how graciously he and the entire office and family welcomed us to Kansas City when we were studying. Heaven has gained one of the kindest angels. Thinking of you all in this difficult time...

Kim & Tom James Jul 06, 2023

Friend ,Weatherby Lake ,Missouri

Knowing Ciro for 33 years was a gift. He was an amazing man that had a big heart. He is missed and will be forever in our hearts. Thank you Susan for loving and taking care of this man till his last moment. Huge hugs to the family and friends who adored Ciro. Much love, Kim and Tom James

Beverly Shaw Jul 13, 2023

Admirer ,Independence ,Missouri

Dr. Rustici was a wonderful friend and chiropractor to my stepson, Jeff Klukow, who really looked forward to seeing him and BJ.

Norman Bliss Aug 07, 2023

Friend, colleague, patient ,CARROLLTON ,Missouri

We met while he was teaching a class at Cleveland 49 years ago. He introduced me to the Blair technique and provided help and guidance whenever I needed it. He also provided chiropractic care to me whenever I needed for the whole time. We laughed together EVERY time I was around him – and I always looked forward to being there. Although I wasn’t around him very often over the last 35 years, he was always a part of my life and I will sorely miss him.

Tom Bloess Aug 07, 2023

Life-long friend of Susan ,Springfield ,Missouri

To Susan and the Rustici family, I want to express my heartfelt condolences to you, and all of your loved ones. Peace be with you at this very difficult time and always.

Jennifer Styers Aug 08, 2023

Friend and family through love ,Dallas ,Texas

Ciro was one of my favorite people in the entire world. He had a heart of GOLD! The legacy of love he leaves behind is immeasurable. He did more than touch bodies...he touched souls. My heart breaks with with Susan and his boys. What a blessing to have known and loved him! He is in the arms of our Savior Jesus Christ...no better place to be.

Michelle Schwab Wentworth Aug 13, 2023

Past patient ,Lees summit ,Missouri

My parents and I would come see him at least twice a month for adjustments while his boys were still young I am happy to hear that they are continuing his business of chiropractic

Virginia LaSala Oct 02, 2023

friend ,KANSAS CITY ,Missouri

My family and I just learned of Ciro's passing. To Anna Marie, Tony, Tom, and all Ciro's family, we are so sorry for your loss and keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Virginia LaSala