Russell Edward Waterman

Russell E Waterman was born May 3, 1937, in his home on Spring Street in Independence Missouri. He went home April 24, 2026. He is proceeded in death by Florence Elsa Waterman the love of his life. Brother Ed Waterman, sisters’ Louise O’Dell, Bernice Long, parents Edna and Russell Waterman, son in law Don Marsh.

Russell and Florence’s love story began when Russell was a 14-year-old boy collecting trash to help support his widow Mother in Independence, Missouri on the same street that Florence lived on. Florence was 11 years old at the time they met; Florence said it was love at first sight. A few years later they married on May 5, 1957. Shortly after they moved to Spokane, Washington where Russell served in the Air Force for four years. They returned to Independence, MO where they shared 68 beautiful years together.

His career was as a Sheet Metal worker for local number 2.

Russell was a dedicated husband and father. He leaded his life for God and family.

He served as priest at the Kentucky Hill’s RLDS church for many years, attended Eden Heights for a few years (that branch started in the parents basement), he was an Elder and Pastor at Special Ministries, helped with VBS, did art work and wrote plays, Sunday school teacher, Zion league leader, witnessing weekend, preached at MC Quine home for trouble boys, He was Webelo leader, Scout Master honorary Egale scout, played music at Mo Kan Gospel. Self-taught harmonica, guitar, bow harp. He has made a couple of CDs. He was Pettis County VFW axillary Post 2591. He

His hobbies were woodworking and was a lawn mowers enthusiast, creating new yard art, he took immense pride in his version of the Tow Mater painting, playing with grandkids, trips to the Ozarks, cherishing time with mom. He truly had a gift of talking with willing and unwilling people.

He is survived by his children Julie Marsh, Vernon Waterman (spouse Sarah), Russell Waterman (wife Kristine), Tammie Wilkin (spouse Carl) Forever Cherished and remembered 19 Grand Children, 48 Great-Grandchildren, 2 Great-Great Grand Children. All whom he dearly loved.

Russell and Florece also blessed to have been honorable grandparents to multiple others, they welcomed all that came into their home with love. Many ended up in his wood working with him.