John H. Russell

John H. Russell, 83, of Wolcottville, Indiana, died Saturday, September 27, 2025, at his residence with his family at his side. He was born January 15, 1942, in Kendallville, Indiana, to Eldon Robert Russell, Sr. and Golda Irene (McCreary) Russell. John dedicated 19 years of service to Courier Corporation, beginning his career in the Shipping and Receiving Department at the Kendallville plant. His leadership and dedication led to his transfer to Kingston, New York, where he served as Plant Manager. He continued in that role at Courier's Allentown, Pennsylvania location before returning to Kendallville. Beyond his professional career, John was deeply committed to public service. He served as a LaGrange County Deputy Sheriff from 1985 to 2006 and was the department's DARE instructor, educating youth on drug awareness and prevention. He was also a volunteer firefighter with the Johnson Township Fire Department and later served the community as the elected Johnson Township Trustee. In retirement, John continued to stay active. He worked as a park ranger and also provided transportation for the Amish community, reflecting his ongoing commitment to helping others. He was a member of the Woodruff Grove Church, Fraternal Order of Police, and Indiana Volunteer Fireman's Association. Surviving are two sons, Herman (Susan) Lehman of Kendallville and John Robert (Jennifer Groom) Russell of Wolcottville; two daughters, Nanette Russell of Kendallville and Natalie (Bruce) Bontrager of Shipshewana; three stepdaughters, Pam (Carl) Green of LaGrange, Penny (Mike) Lego and Peggy (Nate) Anderson all of Three Rivers, Michigan; a stepson, Lyle Newcomer of LaGrange; ten grandchildren, Carrie (Matt) Tibbs, Jeremy (Tiffany) Lehman, Nikita (Brian) Parchem, Kyley (Alex) Crews, Tristan Eagleson, Joshua (Kayla) Russell, Hope Russell, Jadynne Russell, Xena Gibson, and Chase Gibson; ten great-grandchildren; ten step grandchildren; 11 step great-grandchildren; a brother, Eldon Robert (Jan) Russell, Jr. of Wolcottville; and a sister, Judith (Larry) Bruner of South Milford. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Myra J. (Smith) Russell and his second wife, Judy Irene (Smart) Russell. John's funeral service will be Thursday, October 2, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Woodruff Grove Church, 4860 S 450 E, Wolcottville with Pastor Chris Wild officiating. Visitation is Wednesday, October 1, 2025, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Young Family Funeral Home, Wolcottville Chapel, State Road 9 North, Wolcottville where there will be a Fireman's Service at 6:30 p.m. Visitation will also be one hour prior to the service on Thursday at the church. Burial will follow the service at Woodruff Grove Cemetery. Pallbearers are members of the LaGrange County Sheriff's Department and Fire Department. Memorials may be directed to the Woodruff Grove Church. View a video tribute after Wednesday or share memories and condolences at www.youngfamilyfuneralhome.com