Obituary: Russell Whitla 1927-2016

Russell Whitla passed away peacefully on the evening of August 7, 2016 in Cottonwood, AZ.

Russell was born in Edgerton, KS on August 6, 1927. He joined the Marines at 17 years of age and served in Korea and Vietnam. He was a Marine Reserve officer until he retired.

Russell graduated from Baker University and then received his Masters in Education Administration from Kansas University. He taught school in Kansas and Arizona on the Navajo Reservation. He also worked for the National Park Service where he enjoyed the beauties of the natural world.

Priorities in Russell's life were his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and his family.

Russell is survived by Mary, his wife. They enjoyed 63 years together and raised four children: Robin (Sharron), Ruth (Jack), Janet (Craig) and John; six grandchildren Jesse, James, Shelley, Becky, Cameron and Taylor; seven great-grandchildren and brother Roy (Seki).

A memorial service will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday, August 20, 2016 at Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church in Clarkdale.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Old Town Mission (www.oldtownmission.org or 928-634-7869) or the charity of your choice.

Information provided by survivors.


Donate Report a Typo Contact
Most Read
Event Calendar
Event Calendar link
Submit Event