Lauren Marie “Rusty” Joslyn

Lauren Marie “Rusty” Joslyn

Cedar Rapids

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Lauren Marie “Rusty” Joslyn on June 25th, 2025 at the age of 60.

Lauren was the beloved daughter of Orlin and Barbara Ultis, born on January 7th, 1965, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She graduated from Westwood HS and attended Mesa Community College in Arizona.

Lauren was a fighter who dealt with much pain and many physical challenges daily. She was an expert in sign language and proficient in lip reading. Lauren appreciated the support of the Deaf and Catholic Communities.

Lauren liked to be called “Rusty” by her friends and “Rusty Wheels” when she zoomed around in her wheelchair. She was creative and artistic, as well as a comic. Her family and friends enjoyed her oddball sense of humor and her beautiful bead work.

Rusty had two major loves in her life, her West Highland Terriers, Duchess and Puddles, who she featured on the Westie Website she designed. Her other loves included Charlie Chaplin, Hogan’s Heroes, the Hawkeyes and wearing purple.

Lauren is survived by her mother Barbara Ultis, her brothers Steve Ultis and Mark (Karen) Ultis, her aunt Carol Allen and several cousins, nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her father Orlin Ultis.

A Celebration of Lauren’s Life will be held July 1st, 2025, beginning with a visitation at 2 PM followed by a service at 3 PM in The Chapel of Memories at Cedar Memorial Park in Cedar Rapids.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cedar Valley Humane Society in her memory.