Russel was born and educated in Rock Island, Illinois, attending Augustana College and receiving his A.A. degree from Black Hawk Junior College.
Russ was a printer having worked at the Rock Island Argus and Sam Houston University in Huntsville, Texas.
He had been active in the Kairos Prison Ministry, Order of St. Luke, Christ Healing Service and Abiding Presence Lutheran Church.
Russel was preceded in death by his wife, Lois; and sister, Beverly Carlin.
Russel is survived by his sister, Shirley Knight of Pensacola, Florida; David Dooley of Bettendorf, Iowa; cousin, James Tolle of New Smyrna Beach, Florida; numerous nephews and nieces.
Friends met with the family to celebrate his life on September 30, 2009, at Independence Hill.
Burial will be in Huntsville, Texas.
