Gary Wayne Russell

Cornville – Gary W. Russell, 62, passed away unexpectedly on February 27, 2015 He was born November 6, 1952, in Lynn, Massachusetts, the son of Ralph and Barbara (Granger) Russell. Gary graduated from Masconomet High School, Topsfield, MA, Class of 1970. He was a jack-of-all trades while living in MA. He purchased property in Cornville in the early 1980’s and in 1986 he moved to Maine.

Gary worked for 20 years for Maingas in Skowhegan. In 2000 he married Kris (LaFountaine) and together they owned and operated G.R. and Son Propane and the Kinsman Road Redemption. Gary was devoted to his customers and prided himself on providing exceptional customer service.

In 2006 Gary and Kris joined the Church of the Open Bible in Athens where he was an active member and served on the trustee board and the missions committee. Gary’s heart for missions led him to Ecuador in 2010 and 2011. While using his jack-of-all trades’ skills, he developed a real love for the people of Ecuador.

Gary was such a hard worker that he rarely had free time. When he did have time, he loved to spend it relaxing at their camp on Puffer’s Pond in Dexter. He was really looking forward to spending his retirement there.

Gary is survived by his wife, Kristie-Sue Russell of Cornville; son, Henry Russell and wife Shawna; grandchildren, Trevor and Trinity all of Norridgewock; stepson, Bret Wilber of Milton, Vermont; mother, Barbara Russell; brothers, Bruce Russell and wife Martha, Charles Russell and wife Dixie and Douglas Russell and wife Donna; sisters Gayle James and husband Robert, Debbie Kostern and husband Fred all of North Carolina and Jane Rejda of New Hampshire; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his father, Ralph and brother, Alan.

Family and friends are invited to visit 9 a.m. until the time of services, Saturday, March 7 at the Church of the Open Bible, 105 South Main St., Athens. A Celebration of Gary’s life will begin at 10am with Pastor Richard Haynie officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Church of the Open Bible, Missions Fund, PO Box 88, Athens, ME 04912.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Smart & Edwards Funeral Home, 183 Madison Ave., Skowhegan.