John M. Russell, age 84, resident of Mansfield died Monday July 24, 2023 at his home.
Born May 26, 1939 in Wooster, Ohio to Wilbur H. and Katherine J. (Zimmer) Russell, he had been a longtime resident of Wayne County moving to Mansfield in 2000. He was a 1957 graduate of Shreve High School and had served with the U.S. Army 447th Military Police Corp. He was employed for 35 years with Smith Dairy Products Company in Orville retiring as an account representative in 2001. John had a strong interest in airplanes and flying and along with his son Douglas and flew a powered parachute. He was a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association and spent many hours helping his friends restore vintage airplanes. Family was important to him and he looked forward to time spent with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Surviving are one son Doug J. (Carolyn) Russell of Mansfield; two daughters Debbie Lowery-Sparks of Galena, OH. and Darcy (Ron) Shayka of Sarasota, FL.; two grandchildren Tiffany Gonzalez and Mandi Russell; six great-grandchildren; niece and nephew Julie and Jeff Wells of Prosser, WA and other relatives.
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife Patricia Ann (Wirth) Russell; one sister Jacquelynn L. Burmood; and half sister Mary Jane McDonald.
Barkdull Funeral Home and Crematory in Shelby is assisting the family with arrangements.
Online condolences may be made at www.barkdullfuneralhome.com
Funeral home : Barkdull Funeral Home & Crematory