Russell H. Wilhelm Sr.

Russell Henry Wilhelm, Sr. passed away Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at home surrounded by family. Russell was born on April 5, 1941, son of Henry and Evelyn (Stevens) Wilhelm. He was a graduate of Flushing High School, Class of 1959. During 8th-hour study hall, he met the love of his life, Karon Volz. They married on September 1, 1962 and relished in 60 years of marriage before Karon's passing in 2022.

Russell was a lifelong resident of Flint, a GM auto-worker, and a loyal union man.

During his retirement, he enjoyed pressing his luck at the casino with his wife, taking camping trips with his family, and going putt-putting and go-kart racing with his grandkids.

Many loved ones are left to cherish his memory; children, Russell and Linda Wilhelm Jr., Cynthia Wilson, and Craig and Allison Wilhelm, grandchildren; Coby and Jackie Wilhelm, Kyle and Ciji Wilhelm, Cory Wilson, Hillery and Nick DeFillipo, and Theodore Wilhelm, great-grandchildren Lani, Marilyn (Birdie), Audriana, Cylvia, Carter, Tucker, Eli, Calvin, and Benjamin.

He will also be greatly missed by his bonus family; daughter, Valerie Rishmawi, granddaughters, Sharon Knific and Carilyn Williams, and great-grandchildren, Stevie Knific and Bradley Blanton.

Russell has been reunited in heaven with his wife, Karon (Volz) Wilhelm, mother, Evelyn (Stevens) Wilhelm, and father, Henry Wilhelm.

The family will hold a memorial service in Russell's honor on Friday, September 18th, 2026 at the American Legion Post 64, 4314 W. Carpenter Rd., Flint, MI at 1:00 pm.

In place of flowers, please make a donation to the American Heart Association in Russell's memory.