William Russell

William A. Russell, age 93, of St. Johns, MI passed away Tuesday, March 31, 2009 at his home.

A Memorial Service will be held at Smith Family Funeral Homes, St. Johns Chapel, St. Johns, MI on Saturday, April 4, 2009 at 6:00 P.M., Pastor Virginia Wickwire and Pastor Jack Benac will officiate. The family will receive friends from 5:00 P.M. until time of service.

William was born in Bellingham, Washington on November 7, 1915, the son of William H. and Ethel E. (Davis) Russell. He graduated from Truman High School in Missouri. On September 5, 1955 he married Gloria Marie Mabel Foster at St. Joseph Street Church in Lansing, Michigan. Gloria predeceased him on February 7, 2001. William worked for the State of Michigan as a Draftsman in the bridge design department. He retired in May of 1978.

He resided in Missouri until 1955, then moved to the Lansing and St. Johns area. He was a member of the Wolcott Foundation, Genealogy Society, Michigan Mineralogical Society and the Autobond Society. William was also an Eagle Scout with the Boy Scouts of America. He was a member of Community of Christ Church.

He is survived by two daughters Judie Fries and Gloria and Frank Bigelow; two sons William Jr. and Alvina Russell; Robert and Joyce Russell and one brother Robert Russell. He was predeceased by his parents, wife Gloria, one daughter Tonia, son-in-law Arthur and one brother Orrin.

Memorials may be made to Shriner's or Polio Association. Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes St. Johns Chapel St. Johns, Michigan.

Read William Russell's Obituary and Guestbook on smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com.