Edward M. “Rusty” Felegy, 75, of Emmaus, passed away at home on September 14, 2026, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Allentown, Rusty was the son of the late Edward Felegy and Mae “Billie” (Krause) Szakasitz and the stepson of the late John Szakasitz. Rusty graduated from Emmaus High School in 1970 and remained a lifelong resident of Emmaus.

Rusty was an outdoorsman, mechanic, inventor, and entrepreneur. He dedicated more than 42 years of service to the County of Lehigh, advancing through the ranks as a mechanic, and eventually retiring as Supervisor of the County of Lehigh Utility Garage. In his younger years, he pursued a passion for drag racing, building, maintaining, and racing his 1962 Corvette—a perfect combination of his mechanical talent and competitive spirit. Rusty could fix almost anything and was happiest working with his hands, whether repairing, building, inventing, or creating something new. He was also an avid hunter, archer, fisherman, and trapper who treasured his time in the woods. For nearly 30 years, he owned X-treme Hunting Products and developed innovative archery products, including one for which he earned a U.S. patent.

Rusty was a storyteller who could make people laugh and bring others together with a joke, a tale or a memory from years gone by. He was known for his quick wit, generosity, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life. But above all, he was a man who loved fiercely and was deeply loved in return. His family was the center of his world, and he took immense pride in watching each generation grow and flourish.

Rusty shared an extraordinary partnership of more than 54 years with his beloved wife, Diane P. (Rothrock) Felegy. Together they built a life filled with adventure, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Whether they were traveling, hunting, spending time outdoors, or simply enjoying everyday life, they were rarely apart. They were true companions in every sense of the word—best friends who experienced life side by side and whose love and commitment to one another served as an example to all who knew them. Diane was the love of Rusty’s life, and together they created a family and a lifetime of memories that he treasured above all else.

In addition to his wife, Rusty is survived by his daughter, Tracy Hausknecht and husband Brian; his son, Edward M. Felegy Jr. and wife Heidi; and his cherished grandchildren, Katie Hausknecht, Ryan Hausknecht, Oscar Felegy, Ivan Felegy, Vivien Felegy, Theodore Felegy, and Veronica Felegy. He was also delighted to welcome Katie’s fiancé, Ross Wistar, and Ryan’s fiancé, Jared Mickley, into the family.

Rusty leaves behind countless stories and memories that will live on through those who knew and loved him. We will see him in the deer sneaking through the woods, in the rustle of a squirrel playing among the trees, and in the rusty hue of the clouds at sunset. We will recount his stories, remember his laughter and look for glimpses of him in the woods he loved. And in those moments, we will know he is still with us.

Services will be private at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are being handled by Schantz Funeral Home, P.C., Emmaus.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church, 501 Chestnut Street, Emmaus, PA 18049.