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Russell Witte Obituary
Russell B. Jr., was called away December 2, 2016 at the age of 99, he would have celebrated his 100th birthday on December 13. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of over 50 years, Ruth (McKissick), and after her death, Virginia (Kempf) Wiseman and his two sisters, Maryl (Dik) Fletcher and Jane (Bill) Hendrickson. Proud father of Alice (Bruce) Williamson, Glencoe, IL; Ray (Debra) Witte, Cincinnati; Nancy (Mike) Witte-Meredith, Granby, CT; and Jim( Marylinne) Witte , Cincinnati. Loving grandfather of Jessica Williamson, Chicago, John Williamson, Grand Rapids, MI, Olivia (Anthony) Mastriani, Cincinnati, Sean Witte-Meredith, Burlington, VT, Evan (Julia) Witte, Naperville, IL, and Jen (Benjamin) Naecker, Palo Alto, CA. Russ graduated from Western Hills High School and the University of Cincinnati. He was a patriot and proudly served in the USAAF from 1939 to 1946. As a B-25 pilot, he flew 55 combat missions and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. Following his overseas service he was a test pilot at Eglin Field, FL. After WWII he joined his father, Russell Sr., and brother-in-law Richard Fletcher, in the family business; "R B Witte & Son Construction". Russ was an avid golfer and a champion Master Swimmer. He set many national records in Breastroke and Backstroke events. He also had swum on a medley relay which set an international record. He was a long time member of the Cheviot Westwood Kiwanis Club served on the board of Gamble-Nippert YMCA, on numerous committees at Westwood Cheviot Church of Christ, and is a member of the Hornet Group, a veterans association. Russ enjoyed spending winter months at his condo on Siesta Key. Our family would like to express gratitude to the staff at Twin Towers, his home for the past 20 years, for their care throughout his time there and to Hospice of Cincinnati for their care for the past several weeks. A private family service will be held followed by interment in Spring Grove Cemetery. A memorial service will be held at Twin Towers at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Twin Towers or the Alzheimer's Association of Greater Cincinnati Chapter, in memory of Ruth Witte or the charity of your choice. Bolton & Lunsford Funeral Home serving the family.
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Memories and Condolences
for Russell Witte
Glenna Stricklett
December 10, 2016
Russ was such an inspiration at Senior Olympics. His true legacy will definitely be the wonderful family he leaves behind. He will be deeply missed by so many people for so many wonderful reasons.
Leslie Elsden
December 8, 2016
Our deepest sympathy to the entire Witte family. Cezar and I had the honor of being friends with Russ. We really enjoyed hearing all his wonderful stories about the family and the War. He remembered things in such detail. We also had a great time golfing with him for many years. We will miss him deeply. So sad he wasn't able to quite make his 100th Birthday which we know he really wanted to do. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Leslie Elsden
December 8, 2016
It was a pleasure and an honor to know Russ. We enjoyed hearing all of his wonderful stories about the War. He remembered everything in such detail. We enjoyed many rounds of golf together also. We will miss him dearly. Our prayers are with the family. Deepest condolences to all.
Cezar and Leslie
Sue Puckett Visconti
December 6, 2016
Jim and the Witte family, My deepest sympathy and condolences to all of you. I will keep you in my prayers.
Sue Visconti
Bob Williams
December 5, 2016
To The Witte Family--
Russ gave a lot more from us than he took.
What a great, accomplished person he was!
I am honored that I had a chance to swim
on a medley relay with him and two of his sons a decade ago.
He will be missed for years to come.
My sincere condolences to all of you.
Bob Williams
Bob Tyler
December 4, 2016
This is a voice out of the deep, distant past: Hey "Kids" - because that's kinda how I remember you: Thanks for sharing Russ & Ruth with us on our spiritual journey. We have many wonderful memories of WCCC and you and your family. The years have passed but the memories remain. Blessings to each and all of you.
Bob & Ruth Ann Tyler
Monica Dechering
December 4, 2016
So sorry about your dad. He was a great guy and an inspiration to all. Your families are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jeanine Pasquesi
December 4, 2016
Dear Witte family. Thank you for sharing such an honorable, kind man with us over so many years. He certainly was Tonys hero, and mine as well. Deepest condolences to you all.
Love, Jean
Barbara Kock
December 4, 2016
Dear Witte family,
What an honor it was to know your Dad. I will always remember his storytelling and the good times at Tortuga. My sincere sympathy to the Witte family. Fondly, Barbara Butscha Kock
Tom Martin
December 4, 2016
Ray, sorry for your lost. I read the obit what a proud son you must be.
We are celebrating my mother's 100 birthday today. She turns 100 tomorrow.
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