John Thomas Russ Sr.

1942 - 2016

John Thomas Russ Sr. was born May 12, 1942. He was one of five children born from the union of the late George Russ and the late Zena (Capitan) Russ. He was a graduate of Salesian High School in Detroit and received his Associate's Degree in Drafting at Henry Ford Community College.
John married the love of his life Mary at St. Alphonsus Roman Catholic Church in Detroit and supported his family employed as a Skilled Pipefitter at Ford Motor Company for 36 years, retiring in 1996 and as the Building Director in Flat Rock for 10 years, again retiring in 2010.
John received his spiritual nourishment as a lifelong member of St. Charles Borromeo Church. He valued Catholic education so much that he served on the Parish Counsel and as the School Board President.
John was a hard worker and a great man of integrity. He was quite generous, putting others first and helping all those in need. He appreciated the outdoors on his tractor or in his garden. As family was most important to John, he enjoyed spending time with them, especially all twenty-one annual vacations at the family's favorite vacationing spot in Traverse City. He of course was always thrilled to host and cook for family occasions
John Thomas Russ Sr., age 73, of Newport passed away at 2:35am at Harper University Hospital. In addition to his parents, his passing was preceded by his brother: Peter Russ.
To cherish his memory he leaves wife: Mary; four children: John (Jeanine) Russ of Canton, Dr. Robert M. Russ M.D. of Canton, Brian (Richelle) Russ of Novi and David (Amanda) Russ of Lake Orion; brothers: George (Diane) Russ of South Rockwood, Michael (Marilyn) Russ of Taylor and sister: Theresa Russ of Grosse Point; seven grandchildren: Madison, Christian, Brayden, Brienna, Mikaiya, Addilyn and Lincoln; and many nieces and nephews.
Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 8:00pm, Sunday, April 10, 2016 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. He will lie in state from 10:00 until 11:00am on Monday, April 11,2016 at St Charles Borromeo Church. Mass of the Resurrection will take place at 11:00am with Father Anthony Camilleri officiating.
Memorial donations are suggested to Mercy's Angels. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, send a floral arrangement, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.