Russell A. Buehlhorn

A veteran of World War II, “Russ” served in the 5th Army 10th Mountain Division invasion of Italy receiving two Bronze Stars. He was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars, The American Legion, E.A.A. (Experimental Aircraft Association) and a life-long member of St. Teresa Catholic Church, Belleville, IL. He retired from Monsanto Chemical Company as a pipefitter after 35 years of service.

He had a passion for aviation and enjoyed spending his time building and flying with his buddies at Flying Dutchman Air Field in addition to morning coffee at McDonald’s.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur L. and Mary O., nee Schneider, Buehlhorn, a brother, Milton E. and son-in-law, Jeffrey Thomas.

Surviving is his loving wife of 67 years, Rita A. Buehlhorn, nee Richard, his four children, Robert S. (Marilyn) Buehlhorn of Belleville, IL, Sharan K. (Steven) Underdahl, of Fountain, CO, Diane S. (Gary) Ceretto of Glen Carbon, IL and Sandra L. Thomas of Belleville, IL; eight grandchildren, John A., James A. (Crystal Brown), and Joshua A. Buehlhorn, Scott (Shelby) Underdahl, Shellee (Scott) Brandt, Kerri (Patrick) Curtis Jr., Charles Thomas, and Gina M. Ceretto; seven great-grandchildren, Erin, Ethan and Elizabeth Buehlhorn, Braelyn and Lilly Brandt, and Amelia and Isabelle Curtis; sister-in-law, Jeannine Buehlhorn and sister and brother-in-law, Rose Marie and Robert Sheer.

Memorials are appreciated to Hospice of Southern Illinois or to a charity of the Donor’s Choice. Memories and expressions of condolences may be made at www.lakeviewfuneralhm.com

Funeral: A Memorial Mass will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, July 12 2014 at St. Teresa Catholic Church, Belleville, IL. Interment will be in Green Mount Catholic Cemetery, Belleville, Illinois. Upon his request cremation was to be held.