An end of an era: Rua Insurance owner to retire

Aug. 02--PITTSBURG -- David Rua is set to retire this week after 52 years in business selling insurance and real estate -- ending the era of Rua Insurance Agency.

A day after Rua was born in 1947, his father August 'Augie' Rua signed a contract to sell insurance in Pittsburg for Farmers Insurance Group.

The office on 1504 N. Broadway was built in 1957 where the business thrived for 70 years.

"I'm 70 years old," Rua said. "I've been in business 52 years -- I thought it might be time to quit.

"I waited so long because I like what I do -- meeting people and helping them out. I get enjoyment helping people with insurance and finance problems."

David Rua followed his father's footsteps and joined him as an insurance agent in 1966, after serving in the Vietnam War in the U.S. Navy and completing a degree in business administration at Kansas State Teacher's College, now known as Pittsburg State University.

"I wanted to be my own boss and run my own company," Rua said. "I liked the idea of freedom and independence of being self employed."

In 1972, Rua became a realtor and later provided income tax preparation for local clients.

Rua said over the years, he and the agency were active in public and civic affairs with the YMCA, United Way, Masonic matters, American Legion, Leadership Pittsburg, First United Methodist Church, donations to PSU and scholarship drives for many organizations -- providing more than $40,000 of personal scholarships to PSU students, he said.

Upon retirement, Rua said he plans to plant a garden at his home, travel and spend time with his three grandchildren.

"I'm sad," he said. "I have mixed feelings about retiring.

"I would like to stay and help people out, but on the other hand, I realize it is time."

Although the Rua Insurance era will be ending, Farmers Insurance will remain open at 1504 N. Broadway and will continue to provide services for its current policy holders. New business is welcomed. The new owner of the company will be announced at a later date.

-- Stephanie Potter is a staff writer at the Morning Sun. She can be emailed at [email protected] or follow her on Twitter @PittStephP and Instagram @stephanie_morningsun.

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