Dean B. Russell

Dean Russell, 99, of Mt. Pleasant, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2011, at Isabella County Medical Care Facility. Dean was born Jan. 15, 1912, in Coffeyville, Kansas, the son of the late E.B. and Emma (Holton) Russell. He was a graduate of Coffeyville Junior College and worked as a cost accountant in the oil field equipment business before joining the Army Air Corps and serving as a flight instructor during World War II. Following his service, Mr. Russell married Ouita Knollenberg in May of 1945 and moved to Michigan where he began a long career in the oil and gas business. Mr. Russell was affiliated with Gordon Drilling Co., North American Drilling Co., Nelson Trucking Co. and many other ventures related to the oil business. He served many years on the Board of Directors of the Michigan Oil and Gas Association. Mr. Russell was an avid golfer and a member of the Mt. Pleasant Country Club for more than 50 years, serving as board member and president. He was also an active Kiwanian, serving a term as president and a member of the First Presbyterian Church. He enjoyed the outdoors and was a member and longtime president of the Pere Marquette Hunting and Fishing Club. Over the years he also served his community as a member of several city commissions and boards. Dean is survived by his wife, Ouita; three children, Allen (Robin) Russell of Haslett, James (Terri) Russell of Stevensville and Linda Rogers of Kingston TN; and seven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his brother, Harold. His funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 15, at Charles R. Lux Family Funeral Home, 2300 S. Lincoln Rd., with Pastor Sandra Hanna of First Presbyterian Church officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow in Riverside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Pleasant Kiwanis Foundation. Envelopes are available at the funeral home.