Greta Louise Russell

Born in Chicago, Illinois, to John Veeman and Daisy McDonald.

With a compassionate heart and deep love for her family, Greta Louise Russell embraced life with exuberance and joy. She was the glue that held the family together, ensuring that special occasions were filled with warmth, laughter, and togetherness. Her vibrant sense of humor and love for a good joke or comedy left us laughing until we cried.

Greta cherished her time with the love of her life, Bill. Together, they traveled often, particularly enjoying their trips to tool shows and one of her favorite destinations, New Mexico. She and Bill also shared a passion for horse racing, celebrating their wins with excitement and delight.

A woman of many talents, Greta expressed herself through poetry, charcoal drawings, and ceramic painting. An avid reader, she had a deep love for mysteries and never missed her daily newspaper, diligently completing each crossword puzzle. She also owned a Western wear store, where she mastered the art of steaming hats, stamping belts, and even playing matchmaker—leading to the marriage of her daughter, Laura, and Clif, who have now been together for nearly 50 years.

Greta adored her six grandchildren and was present for each of their births. She read to them, played with them, helped with their homework, and shared countless moments of laughter. As they grew, she beamed with pride, witnessing their careers, marriages, and the arrival of her great-grandchildren. Two of those great-grandchildren went on to bless her with five great-great-grandchildren

Grateful for a long and beautiful life, Greta truly felt blessed, and we, in turn, were blessed to have had her in ours. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories. We love her deeply and will miss her always—forever in our hearts.

Greta Louise Russell is preceded by her spouse of 24 years Ira William Russell; parents, John Veeman and Daisy McDonald.

She is survived by her children Laura Mower (Clif Mower) and Steven La Rosae (Mary La Rosae; grandchildren, Kristine Bucci (Don Bucci), Heather Mower, Christopher La Rosae, Jason Mower (Jamie Mower), Michael La Rosae, Anthony La Rosae (Danielle La Rosae); Great-Grandchildren, Zachary Tharpe, Stephen Tharpe, Jackson Mower, Benjamin Mower, Eric La Rosae, Laila Tharpe, Arabella Tharpe, Audrey Tharpe, Madeline Tharpe, Grayson Tharpe.

Greta’s love and legacy live on in the hearts of her family and all who were fortunate to know her.