Russell Jeffrey Stippel

Russell Jeffrey Stippel, known to many as Russ, passed away on May 25, 2024, at the age of 69 in Boise, Idaho. Born on July 14, 1954, in Spokane, WA, Russ had a remarkable life filled with service, dedication, and a passion for technology and sports.
Russell Stippel is survived by his wife, Inge; son, Joseph, daughter-in-law, Kassie; grandsons, Cameron and Evan; sister-in-law Christiane and husband Bernd, son Russ Jr., daughter Shannon (Parry), sisters, Judy, Joan, Mardell, Linda, and Betty Jane. He was preceded in death by his father Joseph Sr., mother Mary, brothers, Don, Joe, Jim, Jerry, and sister Janet.
Russ grew up in Spokane, Washington, the second youngest of a family of 11. His dad worked for General Mills and they had an opportunity to live in Haiti for a few years before returning back to Spokane. Russ spent time in Arizona before enlisting in the United States Army.
Russell served in the Army for 19 years, starting as an airborne infantryman and being assigned to the 82nd Airborne in Alaska. After spending time in North Carolina and Texas, he moved to the 82nd Air Defense group and worked on the Nike Hercules and Patriot missile systems. He was well respected by his peers and friends and known to be an expert in his field. He reached the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 3. His military journey took him to Germany where he met his wife of over 40 years, Inge. Unfortunately, his time in the Army was cut short when he was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1986.
After his military service, Russ pursued a career in technology. He enrolled in Spokane Falls Community College to study computers, sparking a lifelong passion for technology. In the late 80's, he was a founding member of the Spokane computer club. He was known for his love of sports and music, passing on this passion on to his youngest son, Joe.
Russ had a deep love for humor and sarcasm. He could talk to anyone. He was a dedicated Seahawks fan and enjoyed watching the Mariners, even though he always said it was" just to pass the time between football seasons." He volunteered for over 11 years at the Spokane Veterans Medical Center where he had many friends and was well known around the hospital.
Russell's hobbies included playing cribbage with friends, hosting monthly card games, and never missing a Seahawks game. He loved dogs, especially German Shepherds and dachshunds. He will be remembered for his friendly nature, humor, love for technology, and dedication to his family.
Russell Jeffrey Stippel will be dearly missed by all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a passion for life
A ceremony to honor Russell's life will be held at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery, 10100 N Horseshoe Bend Rd, Boise, ID 83714 on July 19, 2024 at 12:45 pm. A wake for close friends and family will follow.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Idaho State Veterans Home in Boise Idaho.