Baker City, Oregon
Gerald Dee “Jerry” Russell, 67, died June 22, 2003, at his home in Baker City.
At his request, there will be no formal funeral. His family will have a private gathering in celebration of being a part of Jerry’s life.
He was born on Nov. 8, 1935, at Farmington, Iowa, to Craige and Annabelle Lucille Dee Russell. About the age of 8, he moved with his family to Fruitland, Idaho. It was there that Jerry graduated high school and a short time later married Barbara Reimers. The couple had two daughters: Lori and Sandra.
During his life he worked as a route man for American Linen Supply in Boise and Twin Falls, Idaho. Most all of his working years were spent in the Oregon and Idaho areas.
He worked for the National Guard Reserves in Boise for three years in maintenance repair. He then transferred to the armory in Baker City. He served at that site for eight years, retiring in 1974.
He then moved to Salem where he lived for four years before moving to California. Last May Jerry moved back to Baker City, living with his daughter, Sandy, and his granddaughter, Kaitlin.
Jerry was so thankful to be surrounded by his family during the last days of his life. Even on those days when his health seemed to betray him, he always had a sparkle in his eye and a wonderful genuine sense of humor.
Jerry enjoyed being outdoors, hunting and fishing. In his early years he enjoyed bowling.
Survivors include his daughters, Lori, and her husband, Rich Daniels, and Sandy Cassidy of Baker City; grandchildren, Harmony Leah Sage Daniels and Kaitlin Korren Cassidy; brothers, Earl Russel of Ontario and Jim Russel of Fruitland, Idaho; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his older brother, Norman; and a sister-in-law, Betty.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Emphysema Foundation through Tami’s Pine Valley Funeral Home, P.O. Box 543 Halfway, OR 97834.
Used with permission from: Baker City Herald, Baker City, Oregon, June 27, 2003
Transcribed by: Belva Ticknor