Russell Desserich

Russ was born May 26, 1943, in Cincinnati, OH. He was preceded in death by his parents, Russell, Sr., and Mary (née Michaels) Desserich, and his brother-in-law, William Westerfield. He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 52 years, Karen (née Young); his sons, Kurt and Christian (Tracy); his grandchildren, Noah, Zoe, Hudson, Colin, and Lila; sister Sandra (née Desserich) Westerfield; his nephews Ryan Westerfield and Craig Westerfield; his brother-in-law Marc Young; several cousins; and countless friends.

Russ received his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Cincinnati. He served active duty in the U.S. Navy from 1967 to 1973, and in the Naval Reserves from 1973 to 1994, retiring with the rank of Captain. He spent most of his very successful career at Intel Corp., selling micro-controllers and managing a sales team. A former co-worker said, "His advice and counsel were invaluable. He was much much more than a great salesman. He was a leader, and we all will miss him." Another friend said, "Russ was indeed a true gentleman in every sense. He was a role model for character and integrity – and fun... He made the world a better and more interesting place."

A tremendous athlete throughout his life, he swam competitively in high school, college and later in senior ranks. He loved water skiing, snow skiing, hockey and golf. He was actively involved in the Lake James Ski Association and served as the honorary "Mayor" of Lake James in 2000. With his family, he was an avid world traveler, and was known on occasion to mix his snow skiing skills into his trips.

He was passionate about his volunteer work for Sertoma, Second Helpings, the Ramp Ministry at Holy Spirit Parish at Geist, and RHI's adaptive ski program.

Most of all, Russ loved his family, spending weekly dinner get-togethers and summer weekends at Lake James with his wife, sons, and grandchildren.

Family and friends will be received for visitation on Thursday, August 27, from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at Holy Spirit Parish at Geist, 10350 Glaser Way, Fishers, IN 46037, with Mass of Christian Burial to follow. A reception in celebration of his life will be scheduled at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any contributions in Russ's memory be directed to, Rock Steady Boxing, 6847 Hillsdale Ct., Indianapolis, IN 46250.