Merrill G. Russell

Merrill Gordon Russell, age 85, entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior on Saturday, August 17, 2024, at home under hospice care, with his dear wife, Margaret, and loving family surrounding him. 

Merrill was born in Belding, Michigan on January 7, 1939. He is survived and will be dearly missed by his beloved wife of 66 years, Margaret; his children: Denise (Jim,) Nielsen, Patti (Dave) Reglin and Richard and Shelle Russell; grandchildren, Shelle Ashley, Erin, Elle, John; and 8 great grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, cousins; and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his mother, Lucia A. Cook, a brother, Leonard Russell; and his mother- and father-in-law Ralph and Mildred Wilson. 

Merrill learned the value of hard work at an early age to support his family and their home, and graduated from Belding High School, where he was active in several sports, with the Class of 1958. Merrill proudly served his country in the Army/National Guard and completed Heating and Cooling coursework at Purdue University and worked for Thermal Pride Company for 32 years. Merrill was also very involved in supporting his community through active participation in the Jaycees Club, serving in many leadership positions and state-wide officer positions, the Masonic Lodge, and the Washington Club. He was also a faithful member of Belding Congregational Church for many years, serving on several committees and boards. 

 Visitation will take place on Friday evening, August 23, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Verdun Family Funeral Home, 303 S. Bridge Street, Belding, Michigan 48809. A Memorial Service honoring Merrill’s life will be held on Saturday, August 24, 2024, beginning at 11:00 a.m., at Belding Congregational Church with Reverend Paul Hulford officiating. Memorial Donations are welcomed to Belding Congregational Church, The Belding Museum or The Care Team Hospice, 5401 Gateway Center, Suite D, Flint, Michigan 48507. Envelopes will be available at the service or by contacting Verdun Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services at (6160 794-1300, who is caring for the arrangements.