Russell D. Higgins

Russ was born October 18, 1918 in Detroit. Both of his parents were from the Isle of Man.

Russell was an enormously capable man on all fronts. He served in the U.S. Army during WWII. He was a machinist, a master Optician and a hearing aid specialist. He served as president of the Grand Traverse Hockey Association in the early 70’s. He was the founder of Higgins Hearing Aid Service which he established in Traverse City in 1971.

He was an enthusiastic outdoorsman and even though he traveled in the woods with a compass he rarely seemed to need one. He always seemed to know where he was. Hunting, fishing or just rambling to see what was over the next hill were all great fun.

He raised six children with his first wife, Gayle Higgins who preceded him death.

He spent his last twenty-plus years in joyful union with his wife, Margeritte Gersch Higgins who survives him. They took many trips together and enjoyed each day together to the fullest.

Russell was an optimist who touched many lives with his lively spirit. He was always ready to be up to something. He had a force and a presence and anyone who ever met him knew it. He will be sorely missed.

He is survived by his wife, Margeritte of Traverse City, Daughters Margaret Howerton of Bean Station, TN, and Meredith (Steve) Huston of Traverse City; sons: John (Mary) Higgins of Dexter, Timothy (Sandy) Higgins of Lake Ann, Douglas (Danielle) Higgins of Traverse City, and Daniel (Renee) Higgins of Lake Ann; also grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, June 6, 2012 from 5-8 p.m. at the Covell Funeral Home in Traverse City. A funeral will be held Thursday, June 7, 2012 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Traverse City at 2 pm with visitation 1 hour prior. Burial will take place at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens.

Please share a memory of Russell at www.covellfuneralhomes.com

Arrangements entrusted to Covell Funeral home of Traverse City.