Raymond M. Russell

Raymond Matthew Russell (Ray) died 1/31/2020, at Collier Lutheran Hospice at the age of 77.  Ray was born in Colby, KS., the son of Harry Raymond and Mary Katherine Russell.  Ray graduated from Fort Hays KS State University with a major in mathematics.  While at Fort Hays, he fell in-love with Judy Rindt.  They were married nearly 55 years.

Ray began his career as a math teacher in Kansas City.  After starting on his masters at Wichita State University, he was talked into teaching math at Campus High School near Wichita, KS.  After being recruited by MicroSwitch of Honeywell, he and Judy moved to Freeport, Illinois, where he began his career as a systems analysis.  While in Freeport, their son David and daughter Michelle were born.  Sunstrand corporation transferred Ray to Denver in 1977.  He retired from the Dept. of Revenue in 2008.

Ray was an Eagle Scout and loved the outdoors.  He enjoyed camping with family and friends.  He reluctantly gave up skiing in 2000 after open heart surgery.  He loved any type of fishing, but fly fishing was his favorite.  His favorite fish stories involved ice fishing with his son David, and teaching his grandson Jacob to fish.  When he could no longer hike, he took up Geocaching.  Another love was traveling, including planning all the details of the trip.

Ray was active in the church serving from teaching high school Sunday school, to Council President to committee member.  He volunteered at the Arvada Center, at the Arvada Reservoir as a Ranger, and for the city of Arvada.  He enjoyed his classes at the Citizens Police Academy and the Fire department.  He was pleased with the Girls Soccer team which he coached for years as 6 of “his” girls went on to play high school and college soccer. 

Ray will be remembered for his independence, sense of humor, reliability, humility, and for being responsible and trustworthy.  He took immense pride in his son and daughter and the values which they passed on to their children. 

He is survived by his wife Judy, son David (Sharon) Russell, daughter Michelle (Robert) Heinze, grandchildren Jacob and Kaitlyn Russell, Kate and Kiley Heinze, siblings Sandra (James) Oldson, Sharon (Gary)Evans, Judy Ussery, and Michael (Carla) Russell.  He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Jana (2002) and brother Rex (1969).

The memorial service is February 22, at 10:30, at King of Glory Lutheran Church, 10001 W. 58th Ave., Arvada, CO.  Ray wants this to be a celebration of his life so wear your party clothes.  

In lieu of flowers, Ray requested donations to the Arvada Food Bank, King of Glory Lutheran Church or the Arvada Reservoir Ranger program.