Myron Rushetzky Passes Away at 73

Myron Rushetzky, a cherished figure at the New York Post and a dedicated support staff supervisor in the newsroom, passed away peacefully at the age of 73 in the city he adored.

For 40 years, Rushetzky was a key presence at the City Desk, known for his thick Brooklyn accent and his role as the gatekeeper, fielding calls and welcoming voices. His dedication to the Post was evident, as noted by Susan Marcahi, who stated, “He loves the post.”

Mulcahy, who co-authored “Taper of Wreckage,” a book dedicated to Rushetzky, emphasized his importance in the local media landscape, recalling how he was an essential contact for anyone trying to make a name in the industry. She reminisced about his light-hearted demands for souvenirs during trips, saying, “He would always ask you to get him back the shirt.” Many, including Marcahi, made sure to bring back T-shirts for him over the years.

Stephen Lynch, the editor of the Post’s print edition, praised Rushetzky for his mentorship and support. He described how Rushetzky would nurture up-and-coming talent, ensuring they were prepared for full-time roles. “There was nothing he was more proud of than seeing one of his team’s alumni graduate to the news desk,” he said.

Milton Goldstein, who started his career as a copy kid in 1973 alongside Rushetzky, shared a poignant memory. He was with Rushetzky during his final moments, reflecting, “Did you know he holds a degree in civil engineering from City University of New York? He grew up in Bath Beach, Brooklyn, and was inspired to go to school for engineering.” However, after falling in love with journalism, he never pursued a job in engineering.

Rushetzky was immensely supportive of his copykids, even as he was known to keep a tight watch on them. While there were instances of tension, particularly when they attempted to take on more responsibility than allowed, his underlying pride in their success was clear.

Though he was recently diagnosed with cancer, he sought to keep things low-key and didn’t want to draw attention to his illness. Just days before his passing on Tuesday, former colleagues Ken Chandler and Joe Lobinowitz visited him.

Goldstein remarked, “Myron was part of the fabric of the Post,” emphasizing his role in maintaining connections within “Post Nation,” which included an annual birthday card with a list of employees past and present.

Tributes poured in following his death, with colleagues recognizing him as “a true post-legend.” Mulcahy expressed a sense of loss, noting that while “Post Nation” would continue, it wouldn’t be the same without Rushetzky.

In his characteristic style, Rushetzky had long included a quote in his emails from Washington Post columnist Mary McGrory: “I should confess, I’ve always felt a bit sad about people who didn’t work in the newspaper.”