Arthur O. "Art" Russell

ARTHUR O. "ART" RUSSELL MERRILLVILLE, IN
Arthur O. "Art" Russell, 92, of Merrillville, IN and former 50 year resident of Hermit Lake in Crown Point, IN, passed away peacefully while at the St. Anthony Hospice Center of Crown Point, IN on Tuesday, September 30, 2008. Born January 5, 1916 in Stanford, CT; Art obtained his education in Buffalo and Snyder, NY. He proudly and with honor served his country as Sergeant in the 55th Armed Infantry Division during WWII, participating in the Battle of the Bulge. Upon returning home, Art wed Jean Champlin, who passed in 1982. An active American Legion member and lifetime member of the VFW, Art also served as a Past District Commander. He was employed by National Gypsum for over 44 years in their sales department until retirement. Art wed Marie Simon-Ambry June 6, 1987 and together they made their home in Crown Point. In his retirement Art enjoyed golf, bowling, spending time at the Youche Country Club and also working as a handyman, having the ability to fix anything. He and Marie loved sharing time with their family, their grandchildren, spending winters in Palm Springs, CA and recently taking a hot-air balloon ride together. His memory will be cherished and his presence missed by all who knew and loved this patriotic, fun-loving man. Surviving to mourn his passing is his beloved wife of 20 years Marie; children: Richard Russell, Margaret Ann (Glenn) Johnson, William (Denise) Ambry, Janice (Jon) Jerde and Thomas Ambry; niece Sally Russell and nephew Edmon Russell; six grandchildren, three great grandchildren; as well as many dear friends. Waiting to greet Art in Heaven is his first wife Jean; son Thomas Russell; as well as his parents. The family invites relatives and friends to visit at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 8178 S. Cline Ave. (1/2 mile S. of US 30), Schererville, IN on Thursday, October 2, 2008 from 3:00-8:00 p.m. A service to celebrate his life will take place in the funeral home at 10:00 a.m. with full military honors on Friday, October 3, 2008. At rest, Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens, Schererville. Memorial gifts in his name may be made to the Disabled Veterans Relief Fund, 7113 Tiarra Ave., Highland, CA 92346. Information call 219-365-9554