Russell Lee Draper

Russell Lee, “Russ”, Draper, formerly of Kokomo, passed away in his sleep Monday March 20 at Villages of Avon Rehabilitation Hospital in Avon, Indiana. He had been recovering from a severe brain injury suffered in November, 2016. He was born March 1, 1957 in Kokomo.

Russ was a 1975 graduate of Kokomo High School following which he enlisted in the United States Army where he served for over 20 years. He served with distinction in various roles in Europe, Hawaii, and throughout the United States. Russ was a jump master in the 82nd Airborne division where he earned a Combat Infantry Badge and a Bronze Star for action in Operation Just Cause in Panama. Following his military service he earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Indiana University and a Master’s in Business Administration from Capella University.

Russ was the proud father of Christina Marie Draper, and James Loren Draper and wife Shannon, of Pembroke, New Hampshire, and guardian of Madison Schmitt-Arnett of Peru, Indiana. He was the grandfather of Trace Green and Brayden Benoit. All survive him. Also surviving him are his mother, Donna Draper of Coatesville, Indiana; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Martin and Cheryl Draper and of Zionsville, Indiana and Stephen and Kimberlee Draper of Powell, Ohio. Preceding him in death is his father, James Draper.

Services will be held Saturday March 25 at Ellers Mortuary Webster Street Chapel. Friends may call between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. A graveside service will be held at Ball Hill Cemetery in Cutler, Indiana at 12:30 p.m.