Russell Duane Decker

Russell (Russ, Dad, Papa, Sprouts) left us on Monday, August 5, 2024, at the age of 86. He was born at home in the Traverse City area to Alvin and Nela Decker, the second of five children. He lived most of life in East Leroy, first at his parent’s farm and then almost 64 years in the home that he built. He was the salutatorian of Athens High School class of 1956. He played as the catcher on their baseball team. Russ married Patricia (Patty) Miller on June 17, 1961. Together they raised four children. Russ served in the Air National Guard for six years. He worked at Kellogg’s – mostly in the printing department (Kelpaco) ­ - for 37 years, retiring in 1992. He was an even-tempered, easy-going man. He enjoyed traveling and took his family on some amazing cross-country vacations. He visited Hawaii, Alaska, Japan, Germany, Netherlands, and most of the continental United States. He dabbled in woodworking and created some beautiful wall display cases, apothecary dressers and shelves. Russ enjoyed watching sports on tv and especially cheering for the Detroit Tigers. He spent a lot of time hunting deer in the fall and, for many years, went to South Dakota pheasant hunting. In the summer, he mowed his lawn (a LOT!) and worked on the pool more than he swam in it. He also enjoyed spoiling his grandchildren and great grandchildren very much! Russ is survived by his wife of 63 years, Patty, his children: Chris (Patty) Decker, Andrea (David) Tosh, Tim Decker and Eric (Mariah) Decker. Grandchildren: Lance McCray, Sarah McCray, Dominick (fiancée Erin) Decker, Greg (Shannon) Tosh, Allyson (Jordan) Mollenkamp, Jennifer (Brad) Easterday, Janaye (boyfriend Tyler) Decker, Josh Decker, and Logan (boyfriend Kylar) Decker. Great Grandchildren: Emmalynn, Leah, Elliott, Benjamin, Caroline, August, Annabelle, Madison, Abel, Sawyer, Timber, Jayce, Raegen, Dutton, Haden, Miah, Brendalynn, Mayvis and Briggs. He is also survived by his sister, Dianna Schroder, and sisters-in law: Lena Decker, Nancy Miller and Bette Nuzum and many nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends on Friday, August 9, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home & Cremation Services. Funeral service is scheduled for 10:30 a.m., Saturday, August 10, 2024 at the funeral home. Interment will take place at Burr Oak Cemetery in Athens, Michigan. Russ’ family would like to thank the staff at Reflections Memory Care (Cyley and many of the staff), Heartland Hospice (Laura, Scott and Mara), Bronson Battle Creek Hospital 5th Floor and Kairos Dwelling for the love and care they provided during his stays. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Kairos Dwelling. Memories and condolences may be left for the family at www.henryfuneralhome.org