Russell C. Smiddy

Russell was born on November 13, 1930, to Russell S. and Irene (Prigge) Smiddy. He married Elizabeth “Betty” Flynn in 1958 and was married for 51 years before her passing in 2010. Together they raised four girls.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Betty; his brother, Richard (late Louise) Smiddy; grandson, Jack Daniels; dear friend, Linda “Penny” Brown; and niece-like-daughter, Bonnie Teglia.

He is survived by his four daughters: Anna (Rick) Daniels of Wheatfield, IN; Elizabeth “Lisa” (Harold) Varner of Boswell, IN; Caroline (Mike) Stanula of Beecher, IL; and Dana (Robert) Vandewater of Cedar Lake, IN; grandchildren: Jonathan (Samantha) Varner, Elysse (Brock) Arnett, Joshua (Alex) Willis, Dominic (Stephanie) Willis, Daine Willis, Elizabeth (Scott) Kuiken, Nathan (Sadie) Stanula, Abigail "Bobbi" (Kyle) Volek, Jodi Daniels, and Matt Daniels; great-grandchildren: Phoenix and Everly Willis, Bryce, Griffin and Elle Arnett, Emelia, Ethan, and Elivia Kuiken, Sydney and Morgan Varner, Russell and Thomas Volek, Michael and Murphy Stanula, Addyson and Cameron Daniels, Hunter and Norah Daniels, and Drake Daniels; his brother, Jim (Julie) Smiddy; nephew-like-son Craig (late Bonnie) Teglia; several nieces and nephews extended family; dear friends Ray Ross, Glenida Winston, and his college roommate and partner-in-crime, Richard “Zeke” Pramuk.

Russell was a devoted and loving father who took great pride in his children's accomplishments. He was a dedicated Grandfather, affectionately nicknamed “Puttna,” “Gramps,” and “Monsieur Le Groove.” He attended countless events in support of his grandchildren, even traveling to Iowa just to catch a wrestling match. He had a gift of humor, and you simply just wanted to be around him. He was loved by all.

He was a proud Veteran of the United States Navy, having served as a DC2 during the Korean War on the USS Aucilla. He traveled throughout Europe and cherished his many experiences serving his country. He was also a member of the Highland VFW 1109. He retired from Nipsco in 1989 after 32 years and moonlighted as a Tom’s Toasted Peanuts vendor. While working for Nipsco he donned many hats from foreman to supervisor, and meter reader. Upon his nightly return home from work he was greeted by four eager girls waiting to hear his stories of dog chases, pepper spray and helping the occasional stranger.

Russell was a founder of Cline Gardens Christian Church, faithfully serving as a Sunday school teacher, youth group leader, choir member, Deacon, and Elder for over 50 years. His greatest accomplishment was bringing people to the Lord through his ministry and example. He deeply cherished his church community and found tremendous joy in spending time with them—whether bowling, playing dart ball, golfing, or sledding down the Cline Avenue bridge.

He was instrumental in the Glengarry Highland Dancers and Pipers. Russell was also one of the founding members of the Highland Indiana Model A Restorers Club, with who he enjoyed driving his 1929 Model A Ford on outings from Michigan to Mississippi. Fellowship with members of the MARC was his favorite hobby. He had the voice of a beautiful tenor, and was a gifted storyteller. He loved history, historical sites, and was a serious aficionado of White Castle, and Grit TV.

His greatest wish was to someday hear the Heavenly Father say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” We are sure he did!

A visitation to honor Russell will be held on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m. at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 8178 Cline Ave., Crown Point, IN 46307. He will be laid to rest next to his wife, Betty, at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens.

The family wishes to thank Dunes Hospice and especially Laura, for their combined effort and sincere dedication to our Dad.

In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates donations to be made to Shriners Hospital and Dunes Hospice.