Bob’s body has left the world; however, his love, spirit, determination, and leadership will continue with family, friends, and his beloved town of Garrettsville.
Bob was born in Garrettsville, the youngest son of the late Howard and Zora Russell. During his childhood he learned the values of caring for your family, friends, and hard work. That would lead to a long and fulfilling life.
Bob, while still attending James A Garfield School would meet his future soulmate, Karen. After several years of dating, they would go on to get married. They would enjoy 54 years until her passing in 2014. Not long after the wedding, Bob was drafted into the United States Army.
After Bob’s return to Garrettsville, the two would move to Center Street, where they raised their children Scott & Mark. Bob would live in the home for the remainder of his life.
After working for 30 years with his brother Tom Russell at Russell Furniture and Appliance, he would go on to form Scotchman Electric in 1989 with his son Scott. Early in the business Bob could be found in the shop repairing equipment or preparing for the next day’s job. The business would continue to grow, take on larger jobs, and add employees. Bob took great pride in his work and always made sure the customers were happy. The community has many projects that Bob was involved in, including wiring homes, offices, industrial buildings, water plants, churches, and schools. The business continues to this day with Scott alongside Bob’s grandsons Sam and Issac.
Bob was also a leader in the community. He would often tell Scott and Mark when they were young about the family history in fire service. His father Howard, brothers Howard and Tom, as well as nephew Rick would lead Scott and Mark on their fire service journey. Bob was honored that his grandchildren, Sam and Issac would also follow in the family’s footsteps. Bob would rise to the rank of chief. During his stay, he would promote the forming of the Garrettsville Freedom Nelson Fire District. This would allow for enhanced safety and funding. He would also help form the Portage Geauga Water Shuttle. Even today the communities still benefit from these visions that Bob had.
Bob never wanted recognition for any of the things that he did in the community. However, one of the family highlights was his selection as the Garrettsville Summerfest Grand Marshal in 2016.
Bob enjoyed traveling the Midwest, east coast, and going to Florida with his RV. Never one to sit, Bob loved to ride his bike and would continue to do that, only stopping a few years ago due to his health. He also loved to fish Lake Erie for Walleye and Perch, and his family and friends always enjoyed the trips with him.
Bob will be missed every day by his sons Scott (Kim) Russell, and Mark Russell, brother-in-law Dae Abram, sister-in-law Janice Abram, grandchildren Sam, Issac, Tucker, and Emma, and great grandson Henry.
He now joins his parents Howard & Zora, his wife, Karen, siblings, Edward, Howard, and Tom Russell, Wanda Williams, Gladys McIntyre, and Jean Farley.
Please join the family for a Celebration of Life casual gathering and lunch on Saturday, October 19, 2024 from 11am – 3pm at The Nelson Community House, 11639 Windham Parkman Rd., Garrettsville, OH 44231.
The family asks in lieu of flowers, to consider a donation in Bob’s name to Nelson-Garrettsville Community Cupboard, 8233 Park Ave., Garrettsville, OH 44231
Online condolences and memories may be shared at greenfuneralcare.com
