Brother Johann Bapt. Rusch

Brother Johann Bapt. (Hermann) Rusch, OSB, of the Benedictine Monastery of Engelberg, passed away peacefully in the afternoon on October 12, 2024, at the age of 89, after 65 years of monastic life. Born on December 25, 1934, in Appenzell AI to parents Emil and Louise Rusch-Dörig, Brother Johann grew up with his two siblings. Initially employed at the Appenzell Cooperative Printing House, he joined Engelberg Monastery in 1958, professing his vows on December 7, 1959.

Brother Johann served in the monastery’s painting workshop but soon found his calling as the monastery’s cook in 1962, where he took great pride in crafting traditional monastic and Lenten dishes, especially his skillful soups, which were appreciated by the monks and students alike. In later years, he supported the monastery by caring for the sick. Despite a serious head injury in 2011 and the challenges of aging, Brother Johann remained dedicated to attending choral prayers and was often seen traversing the monastery halls with his walker.

In 2021, Brother Johann moved to the Erlenhaus for specialized care but cherished his weekly visits to Engelberg. Throughout his life, he stayed closely connected to Appenzell, where he spent his holidays, read the local newspaper daily, and followed regional events with keen interest. His gentle spirit, reliability, and quiet dedication will be deeply missed. May he rest in peace, and may God reward his faithful service.