John R. Russell

John R. Russell, 85, of Clinton, passed away Sunday, February 17, 2008 at Eagle Point Nursing & Rehab Center, Clinton. John was born February 2, 1923, in Olin, son of the late Royal A. and Blanche (Byerly) Russell. He married Gail Mosely on December 27, 1944, in Anamosa. She survives. He graduated from Anamosa High in 1941 where he was inducted into the schools Hall of Fame in 1991. He was a lifetime member of the NEA, ISEA and also was a member of the CEA. In 1983 he was nominated and won the Disabled Iowan of the year, which was presented to him by Governor Terry Branstad. John was a schoolteacher for 35 years, 29 of which he taught at Lyons Middle School. He also coached football, basketball and track. He enjoyed all sports, especially the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Chicago Cubs. Most of all he loved his family especially his grandchildren. Besides his wife, Gail, his survivors include three sons, Stephen Russell, Iowa City, Stuart (Barbara) Russell and Scott Russell both of Clinton; five grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. Besides his parents he was preceded in death by two brothers and three sisters. Memorial services will be held at 11 am Thursday, February 21, 2008 at the Lemke Funeral Home, Lyons Chapel, 2304 N. Second Street. Burial will be in Clinton Lawn Cemetery at a later date. Friends may call on Wednesday, from 3-5 PM and again on Thursday from 10 AM until the time of services all at the Lemke Funeral Home, Lyons Chapel. Memorials may be directed to Eagle Point Nursing Home, Genesis Hospice, First Congregational Church or the National MS Society. The Lemke Funeral Home & Cremation Services are in charge of the arrangements.