Russell Beer

Russell S. Beer, 81, of Mansfield died Tuesday afternoon, June 11, 2002 at Ohio State University Hospitals in Columbus after a brief illness. Mr. Beer was born May 21, 1921 to Simon and Katherina Miller Beer and was an area resident all his life. Russell graduated from Mansfield Senior High in 1940 where he played Varsity football and basketball. He graduated from the National School of Aeronautics in Kansas City, Missouri and was an instructor in the B-25 Bomber plant in Kansas City, Kansas. He was a superintendent with Peabody Galion until his retirement and had previously worked for G.L. Rogers and was co-owner of A & B Trucking. Russell was a member of Venus Lodge #152, F. & A.M. for over 50 years, Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, Valley of Columbus, Baku Grotto, Ruth Chapter #17, Order of the Eastern Star, and Peabody Men's Club. He loved to be with his family and enjoyed gardening, traveling, and sports and was a man who was mechanically creative. He served with the Amphibious Engineers of the U.S. Army serving in the South Pacific for 36 months.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Josephine Powell Beer; two daughters and sons-in-law, Katherine and William Shaw of Lexington and Sally and Joseph Parr of Bellville; grandchildren, John Russell Harris and his wife, Linda, Lisa Renée Kitzmiller, Jason Michael Parr, and Amy Marie Parr; one great-grandchild, Jade Nichole Harris; two sisters; two sisters-in-law; and his pal, Molly. His parents, two brothers, and a sister preceded him in death.

Friends may call at the Ontario Home of Wappner Funeral Directors one hour prior to funeral services that will be held, Thursday at 1:00 p.m. conducted by Rev. Michael Stine. Masonic services will be observed during the calling hour. Military graveside services will follow in Mansfield Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to the Eastern Star Home.