Russell Lewis Ladewig

Russell was born on January 19, 1928, in Taylor, Texas, to Walter Henry Ladewig and Ruby Ladewig Rae. He graduated from Corpus Christi High School and went on to build a long and successful career as a Dental Laboratory Technician. In 1964, Russell opened his own business, Russell’s Dental Laboratory, which he proudly owned and operated until his retirement in 1990.

Russell proudly served his country in the United States Army as Tech Sergeant. He completed basic training at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas, and served at Fort Lewis in Tacoma, Washington, at Madigan General Hospital. He was an expert M1 rifleman and was awarded the World War II Victory Medal.

On May 29, 1952, Russell married the love of his life, Roxie Ruth Rockwell, at First Methodist Church in Corpus Christi, Texas. Their marriage of 74 years was a testament to love, commitment, companionship, and devotion. Together, they built a life and family filled with memories that will be cherished forever.

Russell had a strong passion for golf. He was an avid golfer most trusted for scorekeeping and especially enjoyed his Wednesday golf outings and holiday rounds, surrounded by his best friends. He also loved watching sports, particularly the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Astros, and Kansas City Chiefs.

Russell was loved by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He was always smiling, attentive, courteous, and dependable. He was a strong man, a hard worker, and a great provider who believed in doing things the right way. He was perhaps best known for being prompt, disciplined, consistent, and true to his word. His steady presence and predictable daily routines were a part of the life he shared with Roxie and contributed to the remarkable longevity of their marriage.

Russell was the last surviving sibling in his family. He was preceded in eternal rest by his siblings, Royce Ladewig, who passed in 2013, and Bernice Waltham, who passed in 2008, as well as his parents, Walter Henry Ladewig and Ruby Rae Ladewig.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Roxie Ruth Ladewig, and his children: Loyce Rockwell Woods (Ron Woods), Eric John Ladewig, Paul Walter Ladewig, and Laura Bernice Brinker (Hans C. Brinker). His family will forever remember him for his strength, dedication, humor, loyalty, and unwavering love.

Russell lived a long and full life. He worked hard, played hard, loved deeply, and remained devoted to the people and activities that brought him joy. His smile, his steady nature, and the example he set through 98 years of life will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Gentiva Hospice; Chaplain Jim Looby, Jessica (RN), Bertha Young Social Worker, Julie (NP), Angelina (CNA), Companion through Medicare and especially Ester Garcia, whose reliable service and gentle care provided comfort and support to Russell and his loved ones.

Russell's life was a gift to his family and friends. His memory will live on through the many lives he touched, the family he devoted himself to, and the love he shared with Roxie throughout their 74 years together.

Visitation will be held at Memory Gardens Funeral Home & Cemetery, 8200 Old Brownsville Road, Corpus Christi, Texas 78415, on September 9, 2026, at 10:30 am, followed by a Funeral Service at 12:00 pm.

Entombment with Final Military Honors will take place at Memory Gardens Funeral Home & Cemetery, 8200 Old Brownsville Road, Corpus Christi, Texas 78415, on September 9, 2026, at 1:00 pm.