Obituary: Rolland “Russ” Russell

Rolland “Russ” Russell, formerly of Waukesha, passed away peacefully with his son, David, by his side on Saturday, July 7, 2012, at Meriter Hospital at the age of 88 years.

Russ was born in Dubuque, Iowa on April 23, 1924, the son of Rolland Sr. and Louise (nee Hess) Russell.  He married Lois (nee Bierie) on Aug. 2, 1950. After the two were married, they moved to West Allis and they later moved to Waukesha in 1962.

Throughout the next several years they moved to Pittsburg, PA; Akron, OH and Los Angeles. They eventually moved back to Waukesha and made their permanent home there. Russ was a dedicated member of the Knights of Columbus and was a former Grand Knight and Faithful Navigator. He was also a proud veteran of the United States Army and served during World War II. While in the military, Russ was a part of the brave forces that liberated the concentration camps in Germany. In his spare time, he enjoyed woodworking and gardening. He was a longtime member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Waukesha. More than anything, Russ enjoyed being with his family.

Russ will be dearly missed by his son, David (Betsy) Russell of Cross Plains, WI; his granddaughter, Zoe Russell of Cross Plains, WI; his brother-in-law, John (Barbara) Bierie of Indian Wells, CA; his nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Russ was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Richard Russell in 1956; his sisters-in-law, Ruth and Jane; and his brother-in-law, George.

A private family burial was previously held for Russ at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Milwaukee. A Memorial Mass for Russ will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Russ’s name may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association Southeastern Wisconsin Chapter at 620 S. 76th Street, Ste. 160, Milwaukee, WI 53214 or to St. Joseph Catholic Church, 822 N. East Ave., Waukesha, WI 53186.

237 N. Moreland Blvd., Waukesha, WI 53188, is serving the family. Please visit the website at www.WaukeshasFuneralHome.com for the online obituary or to leave a message of condolence. For more information, please call 262-542-6609.