Gary Russell

Gary was a loving man who loved the Lord and his family. His faith in God gave him the love and compassion for others, and his willingness to do God's will. Gary had a strong passion in indulging in God's Word, so that he could preach to others. He grew up as a kid in Michigan, on a farm and his family moved to Montana. During his time in Michigan, Gary's grandfather owned a fencing company and Gary helped build a fence for Henry Ford's mansion. At a young age, he was called to be a pastor and he served the church his entire adult life. He was a wonderful person to talk to and he knew how to love without judging. Gary played basketball in high school and college. He really enjoyed all the friendships he had made over his years. He appreciated his Saturday morning men’s group and talked about it often. Gary also loved family gatherings and BBQ's. Gary enjoyed trips to the coast with his wife Dorothy and loved family vacations. Gary loved his wife, his kids, grandkids, and great grandson. He loved being a jokester, trying to make you smile. Gary loved doing many hobbies such as playing the trumpet, piano, fishing, playing golf, going out shooting, going bowling, playing video games, playing arcade pinball machines, playing horseshoes, watching movies, reading books, going to Saturday matinees, and playing card games with family.

Gary Russell passed away at home on Monday February 5th; he was 76 years old. His wife, Dorothy, preceded him in death in 2020. His memory lives on with family and friends. He survived by his oldest daughter Anarene Pedersen, Alicia Nienstedt, his son Jeremy Russell, and his daughter in-law Carri Russell. His grandchildren were Grant Pedersen, Mikaela Bates and her husband Brandon Bates, Logan Pedersen, Tyler Russell, Jeremiah and Gabriela Nienstedt. He had one great grandson Elijah Bates.

A Graveside Service was held at Hilltop Cemetery in Independence on Friday, February 16, at 11:00 am followed by a Memorial Service at Salem First Church of Nazarene, 1440 Market St. NE, Salem at 2:00 pm.