Photo courtesy of Paul Funeral Home of Washington
Washington, North Carolina
Aug 23, 1955 – Sep 12, 2025
Russell Edward Krainiak, age 70 a resident of Washington, NC passed away Friday September 12, 2025, at his home.
A graveside service will be held 1:00 PM Sunday, September 21, 2025, at Pamlico Memorial Gardens 161 Avon Ave, Washington, NC and will be officiated by Pastor Jay Martin followed by a celebration of life at 2:00 PM at the Church of the Good Shepherd.
Russ was born in Anchorage, Alaska, on August 23, 1955, to the late Andrew Krainiak, Jr. and Beatrice Krainiak. On August 25, 2024, he married Deborah Harrison. He graduated from 71st High School in Fayetteville, NC, and earned his Bachelor's from East Carolina University. Where he was a member of the Alpha Phi Omega Fraternity. He worked at Flanders Filters in R&D and later as the Director of the Glovebox Division. Before his retirement he was the Director of Technology for Integrated Containment Systems. He was a long-time member of the American Glovebox Society where he was instrumental in advancing the science of Glovebox Engineering by serving on the standards writing committee and then on the board of Directors. For his lifetime work and dedication to the American Glovebox Society they awarded him the Keystone Award. He enjoyed radio-controlled airplanes, woodworking, old cars, and boating. Russ had a special bond with Golden Retrievers, caring for many in his lifetime and was instrumental in working with NC State Veterinary School for disease treatments. Mr. Krainiak was a faithful worshiper at the Church of the Good Shepherd.
Survivors include his wife Deborah Krainiak of the home, four brothers, Robert A. Krainiak (Katie) of Camden; Peter R. Krainiak (Laurie) of Camden; Christopher A. Krainiak (Lisa) of Castle Hayne; Gregory J. Krainiak of Pensacola, Fl and sister, Julienne Krainiak Kirk of Winston Salem, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews, Garrett White of Washington, Carson (Shannon) Krainiak of Yadkinville and Kaileen (Matthew) Register of Nakina; Ricky (Colleen) Krainiak of Camden and Stacy (Kelley) of Greenville and Walker Krainiak of Camden; Hayley (Derek), Ward of Raleigh, Hannah (Ethen) Wilson of Raleigh and Joshua (Maddie) Krainiak of Wilmington; Gregory Jr. Amber and Andrea Krainiak of Pensacola, Fl; Marlo and Spencer Kirk of Manhattan, NY.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Church of the Good Shepherd, 2425 N. Market Street, Washington, NC 27889.
Condolences may be addressed to the family online by visiting www.paulfuneralhome.com
Paul Funeral Home & Crematory of Washington is honored to serve the Krainiak family.
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Russ was a kind and caring man. I cleaned for him for over 25 years. Over time we became friends. The past year ever though we didn't see each other. We still kept in touch. Letting me know what was knew in his life. Russ knew so many people. He was loved by everyone who knew him. And will be missed by all. May you RIP my friend. Thoughts and prayers to Russ's family.
Patricia Edwards
September 21, 2025 | Greenville, NC | Friend
Karen and I will miss you. RIP Russ. Love you big guy. Dave Ross and Karen Nierle.
September 18, 2025
Our deepest condolences to the Krainiak family.
Bob and Eleanor Matney
Bob Matney
September 17, 2025 | 101 Havenwood Dr,Camden, NC | Friend
Rusty and I were high school sweethearts and I have many special memories of him. I am glad that he had the love of his life, Deborah, to share his last year with. Randy, my thoughts and prayers will be with you and all of your siblings during this hard time.
Joyce Harris Oliver
September 16, 2025 | Asheboro | Friend
I graduated with Rusty from SeventyFirst HS in '74. He was one of the sweetest, honest & most caring people I knew! I'm so happy for him, finally meeting & marrying Deborah, the love of his life! Rusty, you were a dear friend to me and many, many others, you will definitely be missed!!! Sending lots of love to your wife & brothers! You will not be forgotten! Rest in peace Rusty!
Marty
Marty Maddox
September 16, 2025 | Chapel Hill, NC | Friend
Goodbye old friend, we had a lot of good times working at FFI. You will be missed! Enjoy that sailboat in the sky!
Steve Beacham
September 16, 2025 | Washington, NC | Coworker
Russ was a great guy to work with and be around. He will be missed.
Matthew Keehnle
September 16, 2025 | Washington, NC | Coworker
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. Russ was a great neighbor always willing to help or share his abilities. Heaven has gained a champion for the cause. RIP Russ!
Larry and Janet Loving
September 16, 2025 | Washington, NC | Neighbor
Russ was a good friend and I enjoy working with him!!
Jackie Harrison
September 16, 2025 | Williamston, NC | Coworker