JOHN RUSSELL Jr.

John D. Russell Jr.
7/15/1929 - 11/12/2012
Age 83, died at home and into the presence of the Lord.
John is survived by his loving wife Marjorie, his loving sister Jeanne Lee of Walnut Creek, and his niece Sandra Peterson who cared for John at home before his death. Also Cheryl Peterson of Jamestown, CA, nephews Terry Peterson, Modesto, CA and William Russell and Robert Russell, VA.
John was born in Chattanooga, TN., son of Nancy Reed Russell and John D. Russell. He was very proud of his service as a Marine and flew the flag of America and the Marine flag daily at his home. He was stationed at Marine Hdq., in Washington, D.C., after returning from duty in China. When his younger brother Robert enlisted in the Marines and was assigned to Korea, John asked for duty in Korea to be near him. They both departed to Korea the same day and were 20 miles apart on the front lines.
John was decorated many times and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Award for taking helicopters across enemy lines and picking up the wounded. After returning home he married Marjorie Sawyer of Maine in 1952. They moved to Oakland, CA. John worked 25 years as an inspector for the U.S. Government. After retirement, he then worked 13 years for the San Mateo County School District. He and Marjorie traveled a great deal. His joy was being in the mountains hiking and fishing. He especially enjoyed the animals that visited his property; deers, raccoons, skunks, foxes, coyotes, humming birds and quail.
A celebration of his life will be held Tuesday, November 27, 10A.M. at DUGGAN'S SERRA MORTUARY, 500 Westlake Ave., Daly City; John will be laid to rest at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, 5810 Midway Rd., Dixon, CA. Memorials donations may be made to Mission Hospice and Home Care, 1670 So. Amphlett Blvd, Ste.300, San Mateo, CA 94402
JOHN will be greatly missed.