Preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Shirley Archibald Gustafson; parents Edgar and Helen Gustafson; sisters Marion (husband Eli) Hestness and Janet Hagen. Survived by daughter, Debra Carlsen, son-in- law, Jack Carlsen and granddaughter Jaclyn Carlsen; nephews; Greg (wife Barb) Hestness and Gary Hestness; many wonderful relatives and numerous dear friends.
Russell was a member in good standing of the Overland Park Masonic Lodge #436 for almost 30 years and he took particular pride in his involvement with the Shriner’s Antique and Classic Car Club.
He was a 1940 graduate of Central High School in Minneapolis and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Minnesota in 1950. He served during World War II from April 1943 to December 30, 1945 in the 79th Infantry Division-310th Field Artillery and saw battle from France to Czechoslovakia.
Russell’s 36-year career as a district sales manager for the Planters Peanuts Company saw he and his family transferred to Kansas City in 1967. He retired from Planters in 1988.
Russell will be remembered for his quick wit, his many jokes and his love of his family and friends.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 9 at 11:00 a.m. at Mt. Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home, 10507 Holmes Road, Kansas City, Missouri.
In lieu of flowers, memorials should go to Shriner’s Hospital, Attn. Fund Development Office, 4400 Clayton Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri 63110.
