Russell C Knotts

Russell C. Knotts age 100 died July 12th, 2023. Born on March 5th, 1923 in Delaware, Ohio to Eva and Asher Knotts. Graduate of Willis High School in Delaware, Class of 1941. Russell is survived by his wife, Paula J. (Schreiner) Knotts of 58 years, children Elaine (Lonnie) and Christopher from his marriage with Mary E. Knotts (Reitter). Elaine is the mother of Amber (Jack) Hudson Clark and Sabra Hudson, and Christopher, father of Tiffany Leslie, Benjamin Knotts and Eva (Brett) Knotts-Scott, and thirteen great-grandchildren: Ian, Matthew, Evan Milowic; David Russell Hudson-Gloeckner; Kadelyn and Zoe Lafferty, Maddox Knotts, Isabella and Ethan Taylor, and Baby Leslie (due August 1st); Asher Knotts, Cameron and Vaeda Scott. Preceded in death by his parents Eva and Asher Knotts, brother Jack, and sisters Lois Knotts (Yost), Eileen Knotts (Terry) and husband Frank Terry.

Russell, proudly served as Staff Sergeant in the 82nd Airbourne Division, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment – known to the Germans as the “Devils in Baggy Pants.” Russell was heavily decorated with many medals including the Purple Heart. Russell fought bravely in “Operation Market Garden” and “Battle of the Bulge.” Recognized and honored everywhere he went wearing his WWII decorated hat.

Russell loved his family and was known as the “MAN OF STEEL.” In 1958 Russell, John Hill and Bill Hays became the owners of Ohio Steel Industries in Columbus, Pataskala, and now in Delaware, Ohio. Russell worked with the employees as the Plant Engineer because he enjoyed working hands on. He was still active attending Board Meetings this year.

Russ loved playing golf. The last time he went to the driving range he was 98 with his best friend Dewey Long. Dewey stated that he was amazing how he hit every ball straight on.

Russ had a great sense of humor always kept us laughing with his saying “ What’s your name?”, his hand gestures, faces, and wearing his hat sideways with a silly grin. He always ended each goodbye or phone call with “Be Careful.” His way of life was following these words “Don’t worry about the things you can’t control.”

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to M.A.S.H. (Military and Service Heroes) Pantry and Resource Center, 648 Clymer Rd, Suite 113, Marysville, OH 43040. The founders of M.A.S.H. are Russell’s Granddaughter, Amber Hudson Clark, and his daughter Elaine.