He married Leatrice 'Le' Anderson on October 15, 1950, and they farmed near Herman until moving to Fremont in 1965.
He worked several years for the Fremont Hatchery before taking a job with Valmont. He retired in 1990.
An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed camping, fishing, and hunting, often with his son and grandsons. Even after his retirement his strong work ethic kept him busy with projects for his family as well as his church. Many happy hours were spent puttering in his garage or at his basement workbench. He also spent time every week visiting various nursing homes to see old acquaintances and friends.
He was preceded in death by his brother Vernon.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Le, his daughter Lynn Mruz (and her husband Bernie) of Fremont, son Steve Bloemker (and his wife Lil) of Omaha, daughter Stacey Harding of Fremont, and 5 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren, with two more due in 2011. Also surviving are his brother Lowell (and his wife Janet) of Fremont and sister-in-law Donna Bloemker of Littleton, Colorado.
The funeral service will be 10:30 AM Saturday (Dec. 18th) in the Fremont Alliance Church (16th & Lincoln) with the Rev. Tom Nevius officiating. The committal will be later in Ridge Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Dodge County Humane Society, Fremont Area Art Association, and Fremont Alliance Church.
Visitation at the Ludvigsen Mortuary will be on Friday from 2 to 8 PM, with the family receiving friends from 6 to 8 PM.
online guestbook at www.Ludvigsenmortuary.com
Condolences(10)
Dennis and Carolyn Bloemker
Cedaredge, Co Monday, December 20, 2010 Even though we were many years apart and many miles apart, Russ held a spacial place in my heart. He always seemed like the happiest cousin I knew - maybe it was that St. Nick twinkle in his eyes. We are sorry he is no longe with us, but he will not be forgotten. God Bless all of you "back home" and especially you, Le in this time of loss. Our prayers are with you all. Dennis and CarolDan Denison
Omaha, ne Friday, December 17, 2010 I'm sorry to hear about Russ. I grew up with Lynn and Steve. And worked with Russ at Valmont while he was there. Everyone liked him. Again so sorry for your loss.Dave & Sonja (Springan) Bauers
Fremont, NE Friday, December 17, 2010 Le, Lynn, Steve and Stacey & families, Our sincere sympathy to all of you. May God give you strength and your memories comfort you. You are in our thoughts and prayers. God's blessings to you.christina
FREMONT, NE Friday, December 17, 2010 LOWELL I'M SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. PLEASE KNOW THAT YOU AND JAN ARE IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GOD BLESS YOU.Maxine Merkling Herring
fremont, ne Friday, December 17, 2010 Long time friend..Amanda Iverson
Boise, ID Thursday, December 16, 2010 My family's lived in the house behind Russ from 1979 to 1989. He was always so friendly and would talk to me whenever I was outside, even though I was just a little kid. I have lots of fond memories chatting and watching him practice hunting. I am sorry for your loss. He was a wonderful man.Steve and June Westphal
Fremont, Thursday, December 16, 2010 Stacey, Lynn and family, Steve and i were sorry to hear about your father. You are in our thoughts and prayers.Barbara (Smith) Christiansen
Littleton, CO Thursday, December 16, 2010 My sincere sympathy & condolences to you Lynn on your dad's passing. I know your heart must be heavy right now....but I hope you find comfort in knowing many friends, near & far, old & young....will be thinking of you & your family. Our prayers are with you. Our Sincere Sympathy, Barb & Dave Christiansen Littleton, COHarold & Jo Ann (Hosch) Karl
Fremont, NE Wednesday, December 15, 2010 Le and family, our deepest sympathy in your loss and want you to know you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.Gary and Martha Moseman
Fremont, NE Wednesday, December 15, 2010 Russ was such a special friend. We so enjoyed being in a small group from church with him and Le. He had awesome insight and precious spiritual comments that he'd share which truly blessed us all and a wonderful sense of humor. He will be greatly missed!