BARGERSVILLE
Charles L Russell, 76, of Bargersville, passed away October 20, 2020 at Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center with his loving wife by his side. He was born November 17, 1943 in Hartsville, Tennessee to Robert Lee and Irene (Linville) Russell.
Charles was a man who valued God, his country and his family above all else. His love of God started at home with his parents, surrounded by his siblings and held steadfast through his graduation from Greenwood High School. His journey as a patriot and US Marine began just after high school, lasting 15 years until he retired as a Gunnery Sergeant. His passion for our country carried into his final career later in life. He came home from service and began college courses, then a career at Indiana Bell. He also worked for Time Warner and Level 3 Communications, using his engineering skills before finding his final professional home as the Director of Veterans Affairs for Johnson County. This position allowed him to combine his passions for helping fellow veterans and being actively involved in the community. When he wasn’t enjoying his time as work, he was loving his wife Carolyn, whom he married on December 16, 1978. Spending time with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren alway brought a smile to his face as well. Charles was always reading, constantly wanting to learn and expand his knowledge base. Sight-seeing the country with his wife and their friends from the motorcycle they travelled on for years, and then later, relaxed into an SUV, was a favorite for Charles. When he wasn’t enjoying time with his family, the golf course often was a place for him to relax and enjoy his relationships with friends. Charles was a dedicated member of Center Grove Church, the Greenwood Masonic Lodge, and the Greenwood Eastern Star. All those who met him through his life could easily call Charles a friend, and everyone was blessed to have known him. Missing him will be a constant for those he left behind.
Charles will be fondly remembered by his loving wife, Carolyn; mother, Irene Russell; children, Rhonda (Brian) Smith, Barbara (Tom) Sprague, Becky (Clark) Bolten, and Steven J. Russell; siblings, Danny (Denise) Russell, Barbara Emmert, and Connie (Tom) Pritchard; 13 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
In addition to his father, Robert, Charles was preceded in death by his brother Roger Russell, and his daughter, Lisa Shoemaker.
Family will receive friends Monday, October 26 from 4:00pm – 8:00pm at Forest Lawn Funeral Home, 1977 S. State Road 135, Greenwood, IN 46143. Funeral service will be Tuesday, October 27 at 10:00am at Center Grove Church, 2340 S. State Road 135, Greenwood, IN 46143 with military honors at the graveside to follow. To leave fond memories and condolences please visit: www.forestlawncemetery-fh.com.
