Photo courtesy of Hansen Funeral Home - Davison
Davison, Michigan
May 27, 1922 – Jun 24, 2014
Russell Howard Stephens of Davison, age 92, died Tuesday June 24, 2014 at Genesys Regional Medical Center. Funeral services will be held at 2:30 pm Saturday June 28, 2014 at the Hansen Funeral Home Groves Chapel, Downtown Davison. Pastor Dave Boillat officiating, Burial will follow at Davison Cemetery with military honors by Davison VFW Post #4087. Family will receive visitors from 2-8 pm Thursday and Friday. Those desiring may make contributions in Russell's memory to the Davison Educational Foundation or the Wounded Warriors. Russell was born in Richfield Township Michigan on May 27, 1922 the son of the late: John & Blanche (Tower) Stephens, and had resided in the Davison area most of his life. He was joined in marriage to Anita Bernice Prine on March 21, 1941 and she preceded him in death January 12, 2006. Russell was a graduate of Davison High School Class of 1940. After graduation he was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals and played in their Minor League System. Answering the call of his country Russell served in the US Army during WW II. His love of baseball and youth programs allowed him to help originate the Babe Ruth Baseball League in Cheboygan in 1953. He continued this passion as a founding member of the Davison VFW Little League in 1969. Mr. Stephens had a love of community and education. He was a member of the Davison Board of Education during the 1960's. He also was a candidate for the 79th District State House of Representatives in 1964. He also was an active member of Davison VFW Post 4087, and Lapeer American Legion Post #16. Russ was employed by the International Shoe Company from 1950-1956. He operated from 1962 Stephens Realty and Tax Services until his retirement. Surviving are children: Lynwood (Anita) Stephens, Beverly,(Richard) Clark, Matt Stephens, and Mark (Debbie) Stephens, eleven grandchildren, twenty-five great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren. Also surviving is Sister Keitha Rubel and a host of other relatives. He is preceded in death by his son Larry. Brothers: Richard, Donald, Robert, Ralph, Harold, Kenton, Duane, and sisters, Shirley, Gladys, Helen, and Dorothy. The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff of Oaks at Woodfield, and Jean and Michelle at Genesys Hospital ICU. Share your condolences at www.hansenfuneralhome.net
Read MoreJenna, my heart aches at the loss of your grandpa. He was a tremendous man and he and your grandmother raised you to be a wonderful free spirited person. I'm sorry I didn't hear about his passing until now. I'm sending you my love and I am thinking of all the fun memories I have of your grandpa.
Becky Middleton
June 30, 2014 | Washington, DC
Russell was a pleasure to know. He lived a good life and was a fine gentleman and good citizen. I loved his smile. May he rest in peace. My thoughts and Prayers are with his loved ones.
Mary Garrard
June 27, 2014 | Fenton, MI
Thoughts and prayers from the Allie family
Darrin Allie
June 27, 2014 | Flint, MI
Matt - I was saddened when I heard of your loss of your father tonight. Although I had never met him, I know there was a lot of love between the two of you. You and your family are in my prayers.
Dave Broadworth
June 26, 2014 | Fenton, MI
My condolence Lyn, I have many memories of your Dad at the Prine farm house. The Lord bless all of you. Jerry Schade.
June 26, 2014
We are very sorry for your loss. We are praying for God's peace and comfort to be your strength through this difficult time.
Kristin Parker
June 26, 2014 | Warren, MI
Rest in Peace my friend, I will miss you. You are free and can go to the Field of Dreams. Thank you for all your great stories. It was a pleasure knowing you during your time at The Oaks.
Aileen Wright
June 25, 2014 | Swartz Creek, MI
