Russell E. Marhefka

Born in Brooklyn, NY, to Norbert and Mollie Marhefka, Russ embodied the maxim “You can take the boy out of Brooklyn, but you can’t take the Brooklyn out of the boy.” The oldest of two, Russ grew up in New York City, where he ultimately met the love of his life, fellow Brooklynite Dorothy Coyle. A story that Russ always loved to tell, the two had a chance meeting at Woolworths while Russ worked the counter as a soda-jerk—and the rest was history. The two married on August 6, 1955, and were blessed with 5 children: daughter Geri, and sons Brian, Rusty, Chris, and Scott.

Russ was the first in his family to attend college and proved to be a prolific student, graduating first with a bachelor’s of science from the Reserve Officer Trainer Corps program (ROTC) of Brooklyn Polytechnic University (now the Tandon School of Engineering at NYU) and later with a Masters in Engineering from Drexel University. Russ used his incredible academic acumen in both public service and private practice, first as an officer in the Army Corps of Engineers, then as an aerospace engineer helping to design American missile technology at the height of the U.S.-Soviet Space Race, and later as an expert witness at his consulting firm Marhefka & Associates. Later in life, Russ put his academic prowess to the toughest test of all—helping his grandkids with their math homework.

Even while balancing his exciting professional pursuits, Russ adored his family and was a fixture at both his kids’ and, later on his grandkids’, sporting events. A man of great generosity, Russ was always ready to help his family and friends—be it financially, with his time, or with his service. Throughout the years, there is truly no telling how many times Russ transported his children or grandchildren to and from baseball practices, soccer tournaments, and dance recitals. Always quick with a joke or witty remark, Russ was also known and beloved at many local food establishments, several of whom had added his personalized drink order to their official menu. Most of all, anyone who knew Russ knew the love and devotion he always held toward his beloved wife, Dorothy.

Russ is survived by his loving family: brother, Roger Marhefka (Alice); daughter, Geri Marhefka Lauria (Manny); and sons, Russell “Rusty” Marhefka (Heather), Chris Marhefka (Kristi) and Scott Marhefka (Kim); as well as his grandchildren, Ashley Lauria-Golden (Nick), Courtney Lauria, Jonathan Lauria, Joneh Marhefka, Nate Marhefka, Jessie Marhefka, and Kyle Marhefka; and great-grandson, Xander Golden.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dorothy Marhefka; and oldest son, Brian Marhefka.

Though his well-run race on this Earth has finished, Russ’s life and legacy will continue to positively impact many. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 1, 2022 at 10:30 am at Carmichael-Hemperley Funeral Home, 135 Senoia Road, Peachtree City, GA 30269.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, Russ’s favorite charity.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.carmichaelhemperleypeachtree.com for the Marhefka family.