Rusty Hilst, Voice Of Hutch Sports, Passes Away At 82 After ALS Battle, Leaving Grieving Friends And Well-Wishers
Samuel Coleman
Published May 15, 2026
Rusty Hilst, Voice Of Hutch Sports, Passes Away At 82 After ALS Battle, Leaving Grieving Friends And Well-Wishers
May he rest in peace!
June 19, 2026
This article was last updated by Rovik Parajuli on June 19, 2026
The Hutchinson community is mourning the profound loss of Rusty Hilst, a beloved teacher, legendary broadcaster, passionate golf coach, and tireless advocate for youth sports, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 82 after a courageous fight with ALS.
For more than half a century, Hilst was a pillar in the lives of Hutchinson’s youth, whether in the classroom, on the airwaves, or out on the green.
Known for his dedication and enduring kindness, Hilst’s contributions left an undeniable impact on generations of students, athletes, and sports fans.
Rusty Hilst Was A Dedicated Coach And Math Teacher
Rusty Hilst never chased headlines and sought trophies, yet his name became synonymous with excellence and integrity.
For nearly 40 years, he was the voice of Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Community College football and basketball.
He also taught math for 54 years at Hutch High, where he served as Department Chair, and coached boys’ golf for over three decades, guiding the team to state championships in 1974 and 1995.
Hilst’s commitment earned him deep respect far beyond Hutchinson.
During his final broadcast season in 2018-2019, opposing schools across Kansas honored him at every stop.
A longtime friend and broadcast partner, Dan Naccarato,
“He was never in it for himself. He did it for the students, the athletes, and the community. Rusty was Hutchinson.”
Rusty Hilst Was One Of Hutchinson’s Most Successful Amateur Golfers
Rusty’s relationship with golf was lifelong.
He sank the winning putt for Hutchinson High in the 1960 state title, then went on to become one of the city’s most successful amateur golfers.
He had seven Prairie Dunes club titles, five Hutch City match-play championships, and an unofficial course record of 60 at Carey Park.
As a coach, Rusty elevated countless young athletes, emphasizing sportsmanship, effort, and resilience.
His dedication to junior golf inspired Central Links Golf to name its Junior Boys Player of the Year award in his honor in 2026.
Hilst once said,
“Our kids are not only great players, they are great people. Naming the Junior Player of the Year trophy in my honor is something I will cherish forever.”
Rusty Hilst Fought ALS With Grace
In late 2026, Hilst was diagnosed with bulbar-onset ALS, a particularly aggressive form of the disease.
Despite the challenge, Rusty remained positive.
His spirit sparked the “Rally for Rusty” campaign, which raised over $100,000 to support his medical care and living needs.
Surrounded by love until the end, his caretaker and friend, Mel Dower, shared a final message of encouragement:
“You fought the good fight, and it’s okay.”
Another close friend, Jerry Higgins, called Hilst a “warrior.”
“His strength and spirit were incredible. He was still inspiring people, even in his last days.”
The outpouring of support since his passing is proof of Hilst’s place in the heart of Hutchinson.
A memorial service for Rusty Hilst will be announced soon.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Rusty Hilst achieved recognition across education, athletics, and broadcasting through inductions into multiple halls of fame and the Hod Humiston Award.
- His most meaningful tribute is “Rusty’s Room” at Hutchinson High School, a mental health space that continues his commitment to supporting young people.
- The annual Rusty Hilst Invitational golf tournament ensures his legacy remains active in the community he served.
- Check other Articles on
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