Eugene Arthur Russell Jr

Eugene Arthur Russell Jr. 86, of Niles, passed away peacefully on October 9, 2015 at 3:00pm at Washington Square Heath Center. Eugene was born on March 29, 1929 in Indiana, PA a son of the late Eugene A. and Flora V. (Grove) Russell. Eugene attended Niles High School, but before graduating high school he enlisted in the US Army to serve his country during WWII. Eugene spent three years in the Army as a Medical Aidman, receiving a WWII Victory Medal and the Occupation Medal in Japan. After his enlistment was fulfilled in the Army, Eugene then enlisted in the United States Air Force serving his country proudly for the next 20 years. He earned the rank of Technical Sargent (TSgt) retiring on April 30, 1970, traveling the world, his favorite places to be stationed at were, France, Japan Texas, Ohio and Massachusetts. After retirement Eugene moved back to his home town of Niles. He enjoyed watching Westerns, working on cars, fixing things around the house, gardening vegetables and canning them for the winter. He will be sadly missed by his children, Arthur L Russell of Niles, whom he made his home with, Roberta (Jerome) Mattingly of Lawton, OK and Rex C. (Mary Lou) Russell of Bunnell, FL; seven grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren and four sisters. Eugene is also survived by his dog, Sampson Dale. Eugene was preceded in death by the love of his life Louise Ruth (Holt) Russell. They were married on June 4, 1949, Louise passed away on June 3, 2015, one day shy of their 66 wedding anniversary. He was also preceded in death by his parents, a brother and four sisters. Funeral services will be held Thursday October 15, 2015 at Lane Family Funeral Homes, Niles Chapel 415 Robbins Ave. Niles, OH 44446, where Pastor Jack Acri will celebrate his life. Family and friends may call one hour prior to the services. Interment will take place at Niles City Cemetery, with military honors to follow.