Russell Melvin Michaels

Russell "Russ" Michaels, 67, of Milwaukie, Oregon, passed away peacefully with his wife and daughter by his side, on August 13, 2023. He was born on March 2, 1956, in Portland, Oregon. Russ graduated from Clackamas High School in 1974 where he found his passion for IT. Friday nights were big in the Michaels' house as they were spent watching Russ play football for the Clackamas Cavaliers. Then it was back home for the traditional "sloppy joes" and rehashing the highlights of the game.

Russ was the ultimate IT guru with his career spanning an impressive 50 years in the IT industry, starting as a computer operator and gracefully retiring in 2017 as an IT Manager. He was a master of coding and a true tech wizard.

When Russ wasn't busy cracking codes, he was out in the wild, embracing his adventurous spirit. Camping, fishing, hunting, target shooting, snow skiing, boating, riding ATV's - you name it, he did it with a smile.

But Russ wasn't just a tech whiz and an outdoor aficionado; he had a heart of gold. He dedicated his time to various charities, fundraising for the Portland Shrine Hospital, Cystic Fibrosis, Autism Awareness, and many more. It was not uncommon for Russ to stop and take time to help a stranger in need. His kindness and giving spirit is a legacy he has left for all who knew him.

In his spare time, Russ was a member of numerous organizations, including Palestine Lodge #141 AF&AM, Washington Lodge #46 AF&AM, Al Kader Shrine, Job's Daughters Intl (PABG, PAGG, PAGBG, PA SBG), Lents DeMolay (Past Chapter Dad), The Order of Amaranth, Scottish Rite, and White Shrine of Jerusalem. He truly knew how to navigate the social scene and leave a lasting impression.

Russ leaves behind a loving wife, Patti, of 49 years who was always by his side in this wild adventure called life. He will be deeply missed by his daughter and son-in-law, Heather and John Sargent, his sister and brother-in-law, La Verne and Don Hess, as well as his mother-in-law, Iris Harris and sisters ­in-law Donna Farrel (Jeff) and Sharon Bacon (Michael). His fun loving spirit and his life's lessons will be remembered and treasured by his Grandchildren; Kel Sargent (Ashley), Jeremiah Sargent, Tori Smith (Alex), Catrina Jensen (Sean), MaKenna Sargent, Kursten Michaels, Noah Sargent and Ryder Michaels. Gt Grandchildren; Abbi Sargent, Alex Sargent, Freya Smith, River Jensen & Fallon Smith, and a wide circle of nieces, nephews, and countless loving friends.

Russ is reunited, in Heaven, with his parents, Charles and Janice Michaels, and his son, Christopher Michaels, as well as his father-in-law, James Harris.

A celebration of Russ's incredible life will be held at GracePointe Church in Milwaukie, Oregon on October 7, 2023 at 1 :00 pm. In honor of his memory, contributions can be made to a charity of your choice.