William Russell Shank

He was my best friends father and when in his company I always felt important and at ease. I miss both my friend and his father.

Uncle Russ always had a smile and a story to share. I will miss him and the stories...he told us about flying with friends, the Navy, fishing, racing and anything else that popped in his head... may you rest in peace Uncle Russ ...love ya!

Dad and I made a trip back to Indiana in 2003 to visit relatives and to see the Brickyard 400.
While visiting in Anderson, his sister Betty said she would make a few phone calls for a get together
at the park.

When we arrived at the park, there must have been close to fifty people there. There were
cousins, nieces, nephews, and a large extended family of Shanks.

My Dad was overwhelmed and thought that was just the greatest picnic ever.

I'm sadden to hear Great Uncle Russell has passed. I have several memories of him coming to visit my grandma, his sister, Bessie. He was always fun to be around. I remember on a few occasions he gave me "big nickels"(fifty cent coins). I always thought that was great.