Mike Russell
Michael Morgan Russell, 84, May 6, 2022, a cherished father was lost on Friday, May 6, 2022.
Preceded in death by his beloved wife “Peg,” Mike’s end days were full of familial love and exuberance.
A three-year stint in the United States Marine Corps prepared him for a lifelong career in electrical engineering. He spent his entire career working for EMR from 1962 until his retirement, 45 years later.
He was born Dec. 16, 1937, in Freeport, Ill., to the late Joe Oreon and Louise Carolyn Trueblood Russell.
As a teenager, Mike and a friend once finished third in a 200-boat world championship sailing race. His sons also love sailing and many raucous family St. Patrick’s Days were held at Mike’s Sarasota Sailing Squadron.
Upon retiring to Murphy, Mike pursued fellowship in the United States Marine Corps League and was twice Commandant and an active volunteer with the annual Toys for Tots toy drive.
He and Peg were loyal members of Murphy Presbyterian Church.
Mike was a good neighbor of the Kepharts and the Jones and sure enjoyed the Ebenezer community.
Like Peg, Mike provided a faith foundation for the family at both Church of the Palms and First Presbyterian Church in Sarasota, Fla.
He was also preceded in death by a brother, Joe B.T. Russell.
He is survived by two daughters, Lauren Easey and husband Allan, and Carol Martin and husband Curt; two sons, Seth Russell and wife Rhonda, and Jay Russell and wife Amy; five super grandsons: Jeff (Ashley), Zack, Jake (Rebecca), Tristan and Owen; and four smart and beautiful granddaughters: Cayley, Abby, Blake (Jeremy), and Emily; as well as three great-grandchildren: Lila, Greyson and Asher. Also surviving are two sisters, Pamela Tibbitts and Carolyn Motlow.
A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 14, at the chapel of Ivie Funeral Home in Murphy, with the family minister, the Rev. Dee Graham officiating. A private burial will be held at 6 p.m. Saturday, May 14, with a bonfire to follow.
The family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m. Friday, May 13, at Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy.
Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, is in charge of arrangements.
An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhome.com.