Russell David Fondie

Russell David Fondie

Russell David Fondie, 74, of Littlefork, Minn., passed away peacefully on October 4, 2025, due to natural causes.

He was born on May 8, 1951, in Biwabik, Minn.

Russell proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from December 2, 1969, until his honorable discharge on November 30, 1973, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant. A Vietnam War veteran, he served with dedication and courage, exemplifying a deep commitment to his fellow service members and to the nation.

After his military service, Russ pursued higher education at St. Cloud University, where he earned a Master's Degree in Criminal Justice and Biology, with encouragement from his close friend and mentor, Dr. Robert Prout. He dedicated his career to the State of Minnesota as a Conservation Officer and Game Warden, where his love for the outdoors, hunting, and fishing flourished. Russ's passion for nature was only matched by his love for reading; he often spent his vacation time engrossed in books, particularly excited when the new Mail a Book Catalogue arrived. In his leisure, he enjoyed working on crossword puzzles and cherished the moments spent with his grandchildren, despite the distance that often separated them.

Russ is survived by his beloved wife, Jennifer Fondie; his sons, Troy Fondie and Todd (Jennifer) Fondie; his daughter, Tammy Spivack, sisters Jeanne Starken (Gary) and Judy Vreeland; his stepfather, Leo Svir. He also leaves behind a loving family of grandchildren, including Jaide (Shaun) Timmerman, Ryan Fondie, Nora Fondie, Aaron Spivack, Alex Spivack, and Cody Pomplun, along with his great-granddaughter, Kadyn Timmerman, and great-grandson, Beau Timmerman.

Russell was preceded in death by his parents, Stanley Fondie and Patricia (Fondie) Svir, as well as his brother Mike Fondie.

Those who had the privilege of knowing Russ would agree that he was a steadfast friend, always willing to lend a hand to those he cared for.

The family invites all who knew him to join in remembering the warmth and kindness that he shared with everyone around him.

In honor of his Russ's life and memory, a Funeral Mass of the Resurrection will be held at St. Columban's Church in Littlefork on Thursday, October 9, at noon.

Interment with full military rites will take place at the Minnesota State Veteran's Cemetery – Duluth, located at 4777 Highway 53, Saginaw, MN 55779.

If so desired, in memoriam donations would be preferred to the Borderland Humane Society, 1990 Valley Pine Circle, Int'l Falls, MN 56649 or cards may be mailed to Jennifer Fondie, 921 Aspen Street, Littlefork, MN 56653. Condolences may be left at www.greenlarsen.com

Arrangements are with Green-Larsen Mortuary, Inc.