Mary Russell

Mary Juliana Russell, age 93, of Forest Lake MN, formerly of Stephen MN, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 12, 2018.

Mary was born in Mt. Carmel, ND on September 7, 1924 to Jacob and Marion Wilhelmi. During WWII Mary worked at a factory making parts for aircraft bombers, and then married Donald Russell on July 31, 1945. They settled in Stephen, MN where Mary was a dedicated mother of six children. She was a 35 yr member of Al-Anon and a devoted parishioner of St. Stephen’s Church.

Mary is preceded in death by her husband, Donald; son, Jeff; sisters, Katherine, Ella,Tina and brothers, Walter, Eddie, Charlie, Arne, Felix, Jake.  She is survived by her children, Patricia (Don) Kannel, Dan, SanDee Russell-Reed (Bob Reed), Mike, Kelly; grandchildren, Stacey (Kim) DuBois, Kacie (Tim) Soliday, Jessica Russell, Robby (Holli) Reed, Chris; five great-grandchildren; six great-great grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other extended family.

She enjoyed baking, gardening, playing card games, and loved Wendy’s Frostys. In her twilight years, Mary became a beloved resident of Birchwood Arbors and delighted in attending the many activities offered, especially Bible studies and church services.  Mary was a strong believer in the Lord and is now dancing with Jesus in heaven.

A Celebration of Mary's Life will be held at 4:00 p.m., Thursday, January 18, 2018 at Crossroads Covenant Church, 17445 Notre Dame St., Forest Lake.Visitation will be one hour prior to the celebration at the church. Interment at 11:00 a.m. on February 1, 2018 at St. Stephen's Catholic Cemetery, Stephen, Minnesota with a time of food and fellowship to follow immediately after at St. Stephens Catholic Church, 515 Fifth Street, Stephen, MN.