Sam Russell

Livonia, MI

Sammy "Sam" Russell died on April 7, 2022 at the age of 79 in Livonia, MI. He is survived by his two sons, Jeremy (Carrie) and Justin (Meg); his sister Sharon; and grandchildren Caitlin, Spencer, Jamie, Hannah, Olivia, and Sophie. He is predeceased by his son Jacob, his brothers Gerald, and James, as well as his sister Jacqueline.

Sam was born in Lansing to Howard and Dorothy Russell. He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, serving four years including overseas service in Turkey.

Sam spent much of his working career as a welfare fraud investigator. Following his retirement from the State of Michigan, he spent another 10 years working in various roles at Sparrow Hospital, including as a shuttle bus driver and valet cashier. He was a people person and could strike up a conversation with just about anybody.

Sam was a long-time practicing Catholic, including serving as a member of the Knights of Columbus and parish council at the Catholic Community of St. Jude in Dewitt. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially bow hunting, charter fishing, and camping. A classic car fanatic, Sam enjoyed the years he owned his red 1955 Mercury Monterey, showing it at several area car shows. He loved to cook, a favorite was grilled steak and potatoes. After retirement he enjoyed visiting his children and grandchildren, often making road trips for visits and special occasions. A loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and godfather, Sam will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on April 19th at 11am St. Therese Catholic Church, 102 W Randolph St in Lansing. Visitation will be held from 5-8pm on April 18th at Gorsline-Runciman funeral home, 900 E Michigan Ave, Lansing.