Russell Wygant

Russell E. Wygant, a beloved family man, educator, adventurer, and caregiver, passed away on November 26, 2024, at the age of 83.

Born on January 3, 1941, in Northwestern Pennsylvania to Eugene (Gene) and Vera Wygant, Russell was the youngest of three children, fondly referred to as the "baby of the family." With older sisters Sarah, born in 1930, and Nancy, born in 1936, Russell enjoyed a childhood where he was doted on by family and cousins who thought he was adorable.

Russell's early years were filled with vivid memories of snowy winters and warm summers. As a boy, he created elaborate snow corridors in the front yard and explored the scenic French Creek with his Irish Setter. A health concern in fourth grade led Russell and his father to spend a season at his uncle's orange grove in Bowling Green, Florida, where Russell played and recovered in the sun while his father worked. He was also an active Boy Scout, often reflecting on the lessons of resourcefulness and integrity that stayed with him throughout his life.

The family lived modestly, often walking to destinations and enjoying radio programs in the absence of a car or television. In 1954, the purchase of their first car marked a turning point-one that significantly expanded Russell's world. While he drove his mother, Vera, to and from work, the car became his ticket to explore Northwestern Pennsylvania and Northeastern Ohio during his high school years.

Russell graduated from Meadville Area High School in 1958 and began his college journey at Pennsylvania State University, later transferring to Allegheny College in Meadville, where he graduated in 1965 with a degree in psychology. Tragedy struck in 1958 when Russell's father, Gene, passed away unexpectedly, leaving a lasting impact on Russell and his family.

Following his graduation from college, Russell and his sister, Nancy, moved to California, where sister, Sarah, already lived. They were soon joined by his mother, Vera, and nephew, James. Together, the four of them formed a close-knit household. Russell began his teaching career as a math teacher at Rialto Junior High and coached football, and later transitioned to Eisenhower High School, where he became chair of the math department.

Russell found his lifelong partner in Joann Kuiper, and the two shared a remarkable 41 years together, marrying in 2002. Their union was a testament to love and adventure, including orchestrating a teacher's strike, spending summers flying Russell's 1968 Piper airplane across the U.S. and Canada, where Russell even saved a drowning child. After retiring in 2002, they traveled in their motorhome, cherishing time with family and friends, including spending time at Mark and Nancy Patteson's cottage in Wisconsin. Their travels included trips to visit family in Arizona, Minnesota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Manitoulin Island in Canada.

Russell also realized a lifelong dream by designing and building a cabin near Big Bear Lake, California, with the help of his family. The precision and professionalism of his plans drew praise from the local building inspector, a testament to his meticulous and careful nature.

Throughout his life, Russell was a dedicated caregiver, first to his mother, Vera, then to his sister, Nancy, and finally to his beloved wife, Joann. His quiet strength, unwavering kindness, and innate desire to help others left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to know him.

In his final years, Russell enjoyed the companionship of Ellie, a loyal dog he adored. Known for his kindness, helpful nature, and ability to fix almost anything, Russell excelled in countless areas-piloting planes, building and maintaining homes, investing in real estate, and being a beloved uncle to numerous nieces and nephews. His generosity and wisdom enriched the lives of many, and the world is better for him having been in it.

Russell was preceded in death by his wife, Joann; his sisters, Sarah Murray and Nancy Wygant; and his sisters-in-law, Barbara Boettcher, Nancy Patteson, and Carole Farber. He is survived by his brothers-in-law, Harold Murray and Mark Patteson; nieces and nephews, Kimberly Bruce, Janette Falk, Elizabeth Mason, Raymond Murray, James Baxter, Bonna Boettcher, Elizabeth Wegner, and Ann Patteson; and many grandnieces and grandnephews.

The family will hold a memorial service for Russell at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 28, 2024 at High Desert Church, Victorville Campus, 14545 Hook Blvd, Victorville, CA 92394. In lieu of flowers, they ask for donations in his honor to The Michael J. Fox Foundation at www.michaeljfox.org.