Al DeRusha, Former AWA Director, Allegedly Passes Away at 88
Earlier this week, it was reported that Al DeRusha, the former director for the American Wrestling Association (AWA), has allegedly passed away at the age of 88. DeRusha, a true jack of all trades in the wrestling world, was known for directing weekly television programs, promoting local towns, and even stepping into the ring as a referee at times. His contributions to the industry were numerous, making him a vital figure during his tenure with Verne Gagne.
Born on November 8, 1935, DeRusha spent his early years in St. Paul, Minnesota, as the youngest of eleven children. His journey began in carnivals before he found his passion in television production. Starting as a mailroom clerk at WMIN, which eventually merged into WTCN in 1964, he quickly climbed the ranks, eventually becoming an accomplished director. His skills were further honed during an eight-year stint in the Naval Reserve, where he produced military documentaries.
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DeRusha’s career in wrestling took off with the launch of the All-Star Wrestling program in 1961, which he directed. His expertise caught the attention of the AWA, where he took on the role of overseeing all production. However, his time with the AWA was interrupted by Vince McMahon’s national expansion, which led to DeRusha being briefly hired elsewhere. Despite this, he returned to the AWA, where he remained until the company’s eventual decline.
Post-wrestling, he joined the Outdoor Amusement Business Association as a senior vice president. His legacy was further cemented with his induction into the Minnesota Broadcasting Hall of Fame in 2015. In 1955, DeRusha married Marlene, and they had four children, eight grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. A funeral service is scheduled for next Wednesday, as fans and family alike remember his incredible contributions to wrestling and television.
For more insights, you can check out his obituary [here](https://www.gillbrothers.com/obituaries/Alvin-Joseph-DeRusha?obId=33622744) or read the SLAM Wrestling tribute [here](https://slamwrestling.net/index.php/2024/11/04/al-derusha-awa-behind-the-scenes-power-player-dies/).