Russell Nathaniel Pitts

Born on July 12, 1933 in Bonifay, Florida to Walter M. Pitts and Grace Lee Pitts, Russell enlisted in the US Army in August, 1952, and was commissioned through OCS in August, 1953. He later graduated from the University of Nebraska with a degree in business.

COL Pitts served with distinction for twenty-three years, demonstrating exceptional leadership, courage, and dedication to the United States. Highlights of his military career include two tours in Korea and one in Vietnam as a helicopter pilot. Among his numerous decorations, are the Legion of Merit, multiple Bronze Stars with OLC, Air Medal with “V” device, and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm.

Following retirement from the military in 1976, COL Pitts began a second career as a commercial real estate broker. He also repaired clocks, played golf, and lunched weekly with a group of his peers.

He was preceded in death by his wife of sixty-five years Edna Earl (2019), and is survived by sons Russell of Colorado Springs, Dale of Arlington, TX, Gary of Glendale, AZ, four grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

A memorial service with full military honors will be held at noon on February 27, 2026 at Pikes Peak National Cemetery, Colorado Springs. A reception will follow at 2 p.m. at Patty Jewett Golf Club, Colorado Springs. Please let us know if you can join us. Kindly reply to [email protected].