Russell C. Smiddy

1930 - 2025

Russell C. Smiddy

Nov 13, 1930 - Dec 11, 2025

Russell C. Smiddy, 95, of Highland, IN, formerly of Hessville, IN, passed away peacefully on December 11, 2025.

Born November 13, 1930, he is preceded in death by his parents Russell and Irene (Prigge) Smiddy; his wife, Elizabeth "Betty" (Flynn); brother, Richard (late Louise) Smiddy; grandson, Jack Daniels; dear friend, Linda "Penny" Brown; and niece-like-daughter, Bonnie Teglia.

He is survived by four daughters: Anna (Rick) Daniels of Wheatfield, IN; Elizabeth "Lisa" (Harold) Varner of Boswell, IN; Caroline (Mike) Stanula of Beecher, IL; and Dana (Robert) Vandewater of Cedar Lake, IN; 10 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; his brother, Jim (Julie) Smiddy; nephew-like-son Craig (late Bonnie) Teglia; several nieces and nephews; dear friends Ray Ross, Glenida Winston, and Richard "Zeke" Pramuk.

He was a proud Veteran of the United States Navy, having served as a DC2 during the Korean War on the USS Aucilla, and was a member of the Highland VFW 1109. He retired from Nipsco in 1989 after 32 years and moonlighted as a Tom's Toasted Peanuts vendor.

Russell was a founder of Cline Gardens Christian Church, faithfully serving God's people for over 50 years. His greatest accomplishment was bringing people to the Lord through his ministry and example.

He was instrumental in the Glengarry Highland Dancers and Pipers and was one of the founding members of the Highland Indiana Model A Restorers Club, which brought him much happiness and became his favorite hobby. He had the voice of a beautiful tenor and was a gifted storyteller. He loved history, historical sites, and was a serious aficionado of White Castle, and Grit TV.

His greatest wish was to someday hear the Heavenly Father say, "Well done, good and faithful servant." We are sure he did!

A visitation to honor Russell will be held on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m. at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 8178 Cline Ave., Crown Point, IN 46307. He will be laid to rest next to his wife, Betty, at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens.

The family wishes to thank Dunes Hospice and especially Laura, for their combined effort and sincere dedication to our Dad.

In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates donations to be made to Shriners Hospital and Dunes Hospice.