Roger Russell Obituary

Roger Allen Russell

Roger A. Russell, 76, of Arlington, passed away peacefully Monday, January 27, 2025, at his home, surrounded by family. He was born January 19, 1949, to Robert R. and Durea (Clevenger) Russell. He married his high school sweetheart, Kathy Pifer Russell, August 4, 1972, and she survives.

Roger graduated from Arlington High School in 1967. He was employed by Cooper Tire and Rubber Co. in Findlay, primarily in tire testing, retiring after 35 years. He was a long-time farming assistant to Merv, and later to Jim, thoroughly enjoying every minute of being in those tractors.

Roger was a longtime member of Bethel Church of Christ. Roger is survived by his wife of 52 years; his sons, Derek (Lisa) Russell of Arlington and Dustin Russell of Arlington; daughter, Devin (Jan) Launder of Findlay; grandchildren, Kyle (Rebeccah) Russell of Findlay, Carter (Jeslyn) Russell of Findlay, Riley Launder and Alyssa Launder both of Findlay; great-grandchildren, Lincoln and Olivia Russell of Findlay, brothers, Ronald (Jackie) Russell of Rock Hill, South Carolina, Rodney (Julia) Russell and Rolland (Susan) Russell both of Findlay; and many special nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Roger was a man of few words, tough on the outside but with the kindest and softest heart. He preferred showing this by supporting and attending every activity of his children, grandchildren and others in the community. His hugs were high fives, way to go and many smiles. He was such a strong supporter of the Arlington All Brass band and Arlington sports and seemed to have an uncanny ability to win many cake raffles!

He was so proud of his granddaughters' accomplishments in school and 4-H, spending many hours watching their volleyball matches and dairy feeder shows! He stood strong for America, so proud and always backing his grandsons and their wives as they all served in the Army.

Throughout his life, Roger was an avid bowler. He had his 300 game in 1974 and went on to participate in the USBC National Bowling Tournaments for 45 years. This led to his love of travel and family vacations. He took family & friends across the country for many adventures during his bowling career. Roger also enjoyed boating, spending many weekends at Bay Point fishing, jet skiing and teaching his kids and their friends to ski and ride the tubes across the waves. As he aged, camping with family and friends replaced boating, and his biggest joy was many family vacations at Fort Wilderness and Walt Disney World spanning the years from 1971 to just last May. He made spending time with his family a priority.

Roger enjoyed coffee at Fred's, breakfast with ROMEO (Real Old Men Eating Out) friends, watching bald eagles, OSU football, and TBDBITL. Guests, please feel free to wear your favorite team apparel when attending services.

The family wants to thank Dr. Onwere, Dr. Modh, Dr. Lutz, and Armes Team of Nurses, support staff, and volunteers for their care over the years, and Paige, Sandra, Barb & Megan for their tender touch. They'd also like to thank Dr. Cheney for his care from start to finish of Roger's long, hard battle, Kris for her loving guidance, and Heather for her joyful banter and nurturing support.

During his treatments, Roger's heart went out to the many children battling cancer, so he requested donations be directed to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, PO Box 50, Memphis, TN 38101-9929 or any cancer agency of donor's choice.

Visitation will be Sunday, February 2, 2025, at CRATES FUNERAL HOME in Arlington from 1-3 p.m. and 4-6 p.m. and Monday from 10-11 a.m. prior to the funeral service at 11 a.m. Pastor Randy Allen will officiate and interment will be at a later date.

Online condolences are welcomed at www.coldrencrates.com.