Russell Lee Warthen

Russell Lee Warthen, 66, passed away on 12/4/2020 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He was born to James Ira and Betty Lane Warthen on May 24, 1954, in Martinsville, Indiana. He leaves behind his wife, Gloria, of 39 years, son, Ryan Warthen of Fort Wayne, and son, Michael (Megan) Warthen of Phoenix, Arizona. In addition, three brothers: Barry (Shinako) Lane of Sacramento, California; David (Gloria) Lane of Martinsville, Indiana; John (Patti Kay) Warthen of Fort Myers, Florida; and one sister, Barbara (Terry) Parks of Clayton, Indiana. He also leaves an extended family of four aunts, an uncle, several nieces and nephews and numerous cousins.

Russell is an alumnus of Monrovia High School, and upon graduation in 1973, he enlisted in the United States Marines Corps, proudly serving his country for four years. He obtained the rank of Sergeant (E-5) and received an honorable discharge in June 1977.

Russell retired from General Motors, Fort Wayne Assembly Plant, in Fort Wayne, Indiana after 30 years of service in October 2008. Russell started his employment with General Motors in 1978 at the Chevrolet plant in Indianapolis. During those 30 years, he also worked at Allison Transmission in Speedway, Indiana, Allison Gas Turbine in Maywood, Indiana, and Delco Electronics in Kokomo, Indiana.

Since retiring he has enjoyed being home and the ability to assist his family when needed. He was looking forward to welcoming his first grandchild, a girl, in April.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Betty Warthen; brother, James Wayne Warthen; and his in-laws, Albert and Mary Smith.

At this time, a Celebration of Life is being planned for June depending on the pandemic situation.