Donald Willard Russell

Donald Willard Russell, 84, a longtime resident of New Philadelphia, died peacefully in New Down Health Care Center at Dover late Tuesday afternoon, September 23, 2003. Born at his family home in Halloway, Belmont County, Ohio, on October 5, 1918, he was the last surviving son of L.B. Russell and Mary E. Hormel Russell. Donald was a Veteran of World War II, having served as Sergeant of the 324th Field Artillery Battalion. He was involved in a total of 45 campaigns in Normandy, Northern France, the Rhineland, Ardennes and Central Europe. Upon his discharge in 1945, he had earned five Bronze Stars, The Victory Medal, the American Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. Mr. Russell worked for the United States Postal Service for more than 38 years, retiring from New Philadelphia office. In retirement, he enjoyed fishing, and especially walking. On the occasion of his seventieth birthday, he took a twenty-mile walk from New Philadelphia to Uhrichsville and back again. On January 16, 1944, he married the former A. Jean Hites who preceded him in death on December 11, 1998. Together, they raised three sons, John (Carol) Russell of Canton, Jim (Pat) Russell of Stone Creek, and Donald (Cheryl) Russell of New Philadelphia. He’ll be sadly missed by grandchildren Carrie May, John M. Russell, Jennifer and Kristin Russell, and David, Laura and Andrew Russell; and great-grandchildren Amanda, Ryan and Daniel May.In addition to his parents and wife, he is preceded in death by brothers Charles and Delbert Russell. Friends may call Thursday from 4 until 7 at the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory, New Philadelphia. Pastor Brian Flood will officiate funeral services Friday at 11 AM in the funeral home’s chapel. Burial, alongside his wife, in Evergreen Burial Park will follow military graveside services conducted by V.F.W. Post 1445. A meal will be served in the social hall of Faith Christian Church following the committal service. Please direct memorial contributions to the Building Fund at Faith Christian Church, 327 Beaver Avenue NE, New Philadelphia, OH 44663.