Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Russell Eftink Obituary
Russell M. "Russ" Eftink, 69, of St. Joseph passed away on Monday, Feb. 19, 2024.
Russ was born on Nov. 30, 1954, to Joseph and Joann (Praul) Eftink in Cape Girardeau, Mo.
He graduated from Watervliet High School and continued his education at Lake Michigan College.
Russ worked in multiple management positions, most recently retiring from Burnette Foods Inc. in Hartford.
On Jan. 26, 1991, Russ married Norma (Ollhoff) Kirkpatrick in St. Joseph.
Russ was a member of the St. Joseph Lions Club, Economic Club and Knights of Columbus in Watervliet. He was also an avid golfer where he enjoyed golfing at Indian Lake Golf Course and Hampshire Golf Course.
Russ will always be remembered for his love for golf, cruising the Caribbean and his amazing cooking. He was a barbecue enthusiast. His passion for the Michigan Wolverines, Detroit Lions and Detroit Tigers created everlasting bonds with his friends and family. Russ traveled hours to be the best cheerleader in the crowd at his grandkids sporting events. He also enjoyed many years of refereeing for the MHSAA, where his love for sports continued to shine through. Russ loved everything about life and his deep love for his family and friends was immeasurable. His lasting impression will live on in the hearts of all those who loved him.
Russ is survived by his wife of 33 years, Norma Eftink; his children: Bryan (Laura) Eftink and Rebecca (Patrick) Barry; grandchildren: Luke and Emma Eftink and Logan and Aubrey Barry; siblings: David (Katherine) Eftink, Robyn Bybee, Susan (Gary) Kluesner, James (Carol) Eftink and Ronald (Lisa) Eftink.
Russ was preceded in death by his parents: Joseph and Joann Eftink.
A prayer service will be at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 9, at Starks & Menchinger Chapel & Cremation Services, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph. Friends may visit with the family on Saturday, from noon until the time of service at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Michigan Heart Association, P.O. Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Chapel & Cremation Services, 556-9450.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Russell Eftink
0 Entries
Be the first to post a memory or condolences.
Make a Donation
in Russell Eftink's name
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
Memorial Events
for Russell Eftink
Funeral services provided by:
Starks & Menchinger Chapel - Saint Joseph2650 Niles Rd, Saint Joseph, MI 49085
How to support Russell's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Russell Eftink's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
